(Miami, FL) - Argentina is looking to win back-to-back FIFA World Cups but may have to do it without their star player, Lionel Messi.
During InterMiami's win over Philadelphia Sunday, Messi substituted out in the 73rd minute with a left thigh injury after taking a free kick.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued. It was fatigue,” Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said after the game. “Yes, it was fatigue. He was tired, the field was heavy, and rather than doubt, you always say not to take the risk.”
Inter Miami manager Mateo Silvetti expressed uncertainty regarding Messi's condition raising significant concerns about his availability for the FIFA tournament in June.
Argentina's World Cup camp begins June 1.
Lionel Messi has not been officially cleared to play in the 2026 World Cup.