Argentina Worry Over Lionel Messi’s Fitness Ahead Of 2026 World Cup

Fresh concerns have emerged over the fitness of Argentina captain Lionel Messi after he requested to be substituted during Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer encounter against Philadelphia Union on Sunday.

The 38-year-old forward was withdrawn in the 73rd minute after appearing to clutch the back of his left leg during the rain-affected match in Miami. Although the incident sparked immediate concern among fans, Messi walked off the pitch unaided and proceeded directly down the tunnel, easing fears of a major setback.

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos later moved to calm nerves, stating that the substitution was purely precautionary rather than injury-related.

“As far as I know, we don’t have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game.

“He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”

Messi’s fitness will now be closely monitored as Argentina continue preparations for the 2026 World Cup in the coming weeks. The World Cup-winning captain has yet to formally confirm his participation, though he is widely expected to lead the national team in what could mark a record-equalling sixth appearance at the tournament.

Since his move to Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has been carefully managed due to recurring hamstring concerns, though he continues to play a key role for both club and country whenever available.