Lionel Messi has given Argentina a major injury scare less than three weeks before the start of the FIFA World Cup after he left Inter Miami’s latest MLS match with an apparent problem in his left leg.

The Argentina captain came off in the 73rd minute during Inter Miami CF’s thrilling 6-4 victory over the Philadelphia Union on Sunday.

Messi appeared to hold the back of his left leg before signalling toward the bench for a substitution. The incident immediately raised concerns in Argentina, especially with the World Cup approaching quickly.

Messi Leaves Pitch During Rain-Hit Match

The scare happened during a difficult rain-affected MLS match at Nu Stadium in Miami. The heavy playing surface made conditions challenging throughout the game.

Messi remained involved in the contest before the issue emerged around the 70th minute. Soon after taking a free-kick, the 38-year-old appeared uncomfortable and asked to come off.

He then walked straight down the tunnel after leaving the pitch.

Early signs, however, did not appear extremely serious. Messi walked without support and did not show any major limp while leaving the field. Still, the timing of the incident has increased anxiety for Argentina ahead of the tournament.

Inter Miami Coach Calls It Fatigue

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said the club had not yet received a complete medical report after the game. However, he suggested the substitution was mainly precautionary and linked to fatigue instead of a confirmed injury.

“As far as I know, we don't have a report on that yet, but we will have one shortly,” Hoyos said.

“He was genuinely suffering from fatigue in that regard — it is indeed fatigue. He was tired; the pitch was heavy, and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don't take any risks.”

Argentina Face Nervous Wait Before World Cup

The injury concern arrives at a sensitive moment for Argentina. Coach Lionel Scaloni included Messi in the country’s preliminary World Cup squad earlier this month.

Argentina must finalise its 26-man squad before FIFA’s June 1 deadline. The defending world champions are scheduled to play warm-up matches against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 before beginning their World Cup campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16.

Messi has not officially announced whether this will be his final World Cup. However, many expect the 2026 tournament to be his last appearance at football’s biggest event.

If he plays, Messi will equal the record for the most FIFA World Cup finals appearances by any player.

Inter Miami Have Carefully Managed Messi’s Fitness

Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has dealt with several muscle and hamstring issues that have occasionally limited his playing time.

Because of that history, Argentina are unlikely to panic immediately. At the same time, the latest scare serves as an important warning ahead of the World Cup.

For now, the substitution may prove to be only a minor fatigue issue. However, Argentina’s preparations for their title defence have suddenly become more tense.