Soccer Star Messi Sidelined with Hamstring Strain in Left Leg, Timeline for Recovery Remains Up in the Air

Lionel Messi, the renowned #10 of Inter Miami CF, sparked concern over his fitness just weeks ahead of the World Cup after being diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, as announced by the club on Monday.

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Medical tests conducted on the 38-year-old Argentine superstar revealed the issue, which forced his premature exit from Inter Miami's 6-4 win over Philadelphia in the 73rd minute on Sunday, although he appeared to be walking normally as he left the field.

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Inter Miami's statement on Monday provided no definitive timeline for Messi's return, stating that his comeback to physical activity would depend on his clinical and functional progress after undergoing further medical tests.

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The update from the Major League Soccer club offered little insight into the status of the eight-time Ballon D'Or winner, with the World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico set to kick off on June 11, and Argentina's first match scheduled for five days later against Algeria in Kansas City.

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Messi has been managing his workload since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with the team regularly excusing him from matches during congested fixture periods, and the MLS has now begun a break for the World Cup.

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Although Messi has not formally confirmed his plans to play in the World Cup, he is widely expected to participate, which would mark a record-matching sixth appearance at the finals.

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Argentina's squad is expected to be announced next week, and the team will travel to the United States for pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9.