Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, casting fresh doubt on his fitness just weeks before the World Cup in North America.
His club, Inter Miami CF, confirmed the issue on Monday after the Argentine captain limped off during Sunday’s 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer.
Messi, 38, appeared to feel discomfort in the 73rd minute when he grabbed the back of his left leg and called for a substitution. He walked off, but then went straight to the dressing room.
“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring,” Inter Miami said.
“The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”
The timing is worrying for Argentina, who begin their title defence on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City. The 2026 World Cup starts on June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Messi has managed his workload carefully since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with the club often resting him during busy periods. That has helped preserve his fitness, but this latest issue now puts his build-up under pressure.
MLS has paused for the World Cup break, which could give him more time to recover before Argentina travel.
Argentina are expected to name their squad next week before warm-up matches against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland three days later.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has not yet said publicly whether he will play in the tournament.
However, he is widely expected to lead Argentina again, which would be a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.
For now, the focus is on how quickly the hamstring settles and whether he can return to training without setback.
