Messi sparks injury fears before World Cup

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Argentina forward Lionel Messi sparked fresh injury concerns ahead of the World Cup after asking to be substituted during Inter Miami CF’s Major League Soccer clash against the Philadelphia Union on Sunday.

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As reported by BBC Sport on Monday, the Argentina captain was replaced in the 73rd minute after appearing to clutch the back of his left leg during the match played in wet conditions in Miami. Messi walked off the pitch unaided before heading straight down the tunnel, easing fears of a serious problem.

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Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later insisted the decision was precautionary rather than injury-related.

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“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.

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

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The 38-year-old has yet to formally confirm he will feature for Argentina national football team at the upcoming World Cup, although he is widely expected to return for what would be a record-equalling sixth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

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Messi has carefully managed his workload since joining Inter Miami in 2023, but has still experienced periods on the sidelines with hamstring problems. Argentina are expected to closely monitor his condition before naming their squad for the tournament.

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