Lionel Messi Diagnosed With Hamstring Fatigue Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, a development that surfaced just weeks before the 2026 World Cup gets underway in North America.
Inter Miami CF announced the news on Monday after Messi limped off during Sunday’s high‑scoring 6‑4 victory against the Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer. The 38‑year‑old grabbed the back of his left leg in the 73rd minute and signalled for a substitution, later walking straight to the dressing room.
Following additional medical tests, the club said the initial diagnosis points to an overload linked to muscle fatigue in the left hamstring. Inter Miami added that the timeline for his return to full activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress, without giving a specific recovery date.
The lack of a clear timetable creates uncertainty as the World Cup opener approaches on June 11, with Argentina set to defend their title five days later against Algeria in Kansas City.
Messi has carefully managed his minutes since joining Miami in 2023, often being rested during congested periods. The ongoing MLS pause for the World Cup break may provide him extra time to recover, though he has not yet confirmed his participation in the tournament.
Argentina are expected to name their final squad next week before travelling to the United States for warm‑up matches versus Honduras on June 6 and Iceland three days later.
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