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NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi gave fans a scare after leaving Inter Miami CF’s MLS match against Philadelphia Union due to physical discomfort. The concern grew when Messi went straight to the dressing room with medical staff instead of staying on the bench after being substituted, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than three weeks away.After the game, Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos explained that Messi had felt tired while playing on a “heavy” pitch. The club later shared a medical update confirming that the Argentine star is dealing with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring.“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress,” Inter Miami said in a statement.The injury update comes at an important time, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to begin on June 11 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Argentina will enter the tournament as defending champions after winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Although Messi has not officially confirmed whether he will play in the tournament, he is widely expected to captain Argentina again under coach Lionel Scaloni. Messi is also closing in on 200 international appearances and already holds several World Cup records, including most matches played in the tournament with 26 appearances.The Argentine legend scored 13 goals and provided eight assists in World Cup matches and famously led his country to victory against France in the dramatic Qatar 2022 final. Argentina, three-time world champions, will play in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan in the expanded 48-team tour
