Messi diagnosed with left hamstring fatigue ahead of World Cup

Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with left hamstring fatigue after suffering discomfort during Inter Miami CF’s thrilling 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union on Sunday. The injury update has sparked concern ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Inter Miami confirming on Monday that medical tests revealed muscle fatigue in Messi’s left hamstring.

The Major League Soccer club did not provide a definite timeline for Messi’s recovery after the Argentine superstar left the match in the 73rd minute. The 38-year-old forward grabbed the back of his left leg before requesting to come off, although he walked normally toward the dressing room after leaving the pitch.

Messi diagnosed with left hamstring fatigue has now become a major concern for Argentina national football team as the defending champions prepare for the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Inter Miami stated that further medical examinations showed an overload connected to muscle fatigue in Messi’s left hamstring, while doctors continue to assess his fitness progress.

“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring,” Inter Miami said in a statement.

The club added that Messi’s return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional recovery in the coming days.

Messi has carefully managed his playing schedule since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with the club often resting him during demanding fixture periods. Major League Soccer has now entered a break because of the World Cup tournament.

Although Messi has not officially confirmed his participation in the competition, many football fans expect the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to make a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.

Argentina will announce its World Cup squad next week before facing Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 in pre-World Cup friendly matches in the United States.