Messi Struck By Alarming Injury With World Cup Just 18 Days Away

Lionel Messi was forced off the pitch in his last club appearance before the 2026 World Cup, departing Inter Miami's clash with the Philadelphia Union in the 73rd minute, though his team still managed a 6–4 victory on Sunday evening.

Messi appeared to gesture toward Miami's bench, signaling for a substitution while clutching the back of his leg after taking a free-kick. He promptly exited the field and headed straight down the players' tunnel into the dressing rooms at Miami's newly built Nu Stadium.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient failed to get on the scoresheet during a record-setting 4–4 first half, which stands as the highest-scoring opening period in MLS history. No goals had been added in the second half at the time of his exit—until longtime club companion Luis Suárez completed his hat-trick with the decisive goal in the 81st minute, and Argentine compatriot Rodrigo De Paul added another in the 93rd minute. 

Messi is headed straight to the locker room after getting subbed out in the 73rd minute pic.twitter.com/BIpKA4M3TW

Although no official statement has been made regarding his condition, there is considerable worry surrounding the 38-year-old, who picked up the knock just 18 days before the World Cup kicks off. Following the game, he and teammate Rodrigo De Paul were set to link up with Argentina's pre-tournament training camp, having already undertaken extra sessions in preparation for the competition alongside their regular Inter Miami schedule. 

Messi, who will celebrate his 39th birthday during the tournament, has yet to publicly confirm his participation in the World Cup. He has previously pointed to his physical condition as a potential reason for sitting out, which would mean his last World Cup appearance remains the title-clinching triumph over France in Qatar four years ago. 

Argentina and head coach Lionel Scaloni have not yet revealed their 26-man World Cup squad. However, they are anticipated to have a clear picture of the group ahead of friendly fixtures against Honduras and Iceland on June 6 and June 9, before their tournament opener against Algeria on June 16. 

Messi's Tournament Injury History

Messi's World Cup participation is not yet under serious threat. That said, he did suffer an injury during the last major international competition, the 2024 Copa América, where he was restricted to just 66 minutes in the final as Argentina defeated Colombia to claim the trophy. As a collective, Argentina would still be a strong contender without Messi, but would be missing one of the most gifted players the sport has ever seen. 

This season, the back-to-back MLS MVP and frontrunner for the 2026 honor has contributed 13 goals and seven assists across 16 appearances in all competitions, showcasing brilliant form as the World Cup approaches. 

This story will be updated.