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Inter Miami confirm Lionel Messi suffering from hamstring strain and fatigue; Argentina captain likely to feature at World Cup
Arjun Pillai | May 26, 2026 12:22 PM CST

Inter Miami have announced that Lionel Messi is dealing with an 'overload' and 'muscle fatigue' in his left hamstring, though reports suggest the Argentina superstar is still on track to participate in the upcoming World Cup.


The Major League Soccer outfit issued an update after the 38-year-old forward was substituted during Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Union due to discomfort. Following medical examinations on Monday, the club revealed that Messi’s initial assessment indicated “overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring.” His return to full training will depend on his “clinical and functional progress,” the statement added.


Expected to recover in time for the World Cup


While Inter Miami did not specify an exact recovery timeline, journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the Argentine captain is expected to regain full fitness ahead of the World Cup, which begins in June.


Messi’s performance this season


So far this season, Messi has featured in 14 of Miami’s 15 league fixtures, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star is also the current MVP, having secured the honour in each of the past two seasons.


Argentina’s upcoming fixtures


Before defending their World Cup title, Argentina have two friendly matches lined up. La Selección will begin their campaign on June 16 in Kansas City against Algeria.


What lies ahead for Inter Miami?


The Herons are set for an extended break before returning to league action, with their next fixture scheduled for July 22. After 15 matches, Inter Miami currently sit second in the Eastern Conference standings with 31 points.


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