By Daily Review Online
Argentina captain Lionel Messi raised fitness concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after requesting a substitution during Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer match against Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
The 38-year-old forward left the field in the 73rd minute, appearing to clutch the back of his left leg during the rainy Miami encounter.
Despite the scare, Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos insisted the substitution was precautionary rather than injury-related. He noted that Messi was fatigued due to the challenging playing conditions.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a medical report yet, but he was definitely tired,” Hoyos said after the match. “The pitch was heavy, and when in doubt, the safest choice is to avoid risks.”
Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022, has not officially confirmed his participation in the upcoming tournament. However, expectations remain high for him to appear, potentially marking a record-equalling sixth World Cup.
The tournament begins on June 11 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Argentina set to face Algeria in their opening match on June 16.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has carefully managed his playing time due to recurring hamstring issues, spending intermittent periods on the sidelines to protect his fitness.