Lionel Messi Diagnosed With Hamstring Fatigue Ahead Of 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, raising fresh concerns just weeks before the World Cup kicks off in North America.

Lionel Messi’s club, Inter Miami CF, confirmed the development on Monday after the Argentine captain limped off during Sunday’s wild 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer (MLS).

The 38-year-old appeared uncomfortable in the 73rd minute, grabbing the back of his left leg before signalling to the bench for a substitution. Although he walked off without obvious difficulty, the sight of Messi heading straight to the dressing room sparked anxiety in Argentina.

“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 timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”

The club stopped short of giving a recovery timeline, leaving uncertainty over Messi’s condition ahead of the World Cup, which begins on June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Argentina open their title defence five days later against Algeria in Kansas City.

Messi has carefully managed his playing schedule since arriving in Miami in 2023, with the club frequently resting him during congested periods. MLS has now paused for the World Cup break, which could offer him extra recovery time.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to publicly confirm he will feature at the tournament, though he is widely expected to lead Argentina in what would be a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.

Argentina are due to name their squad next week before travelling to the United States for warm-up matches against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland three days later.

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