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Inter Miami fans were left holding their breath after Lionel Messi exited early during the club’s Leagues Cup match against Necaxa on August 2. The Argentine legend appeared to suffer discomfort in his upper right leg and was substituted just minutes into the contest. On August 3, Inter Miami officially addressed the situation, offering clarity while raising fresh questions about his immediate availability.
Inter Miami confirms minor muscle injury
In a brief but crucial update, Inter Miami announced that Messi has sustained a “minor muscle injury.” While the club did not disclose a specific diagnosis or timeline for his return, the wording suggested that the injury is not serious.
Still, no official return date has been given, leaving uncertainty over whether Lionel Messi will feature in the club’s next Leagues Cup fixture on August 6 against Pumas UNAM at Chase Stadium.
“Messi has a minor muscle injury,” the club said in a statement released Saturday. “Further updates will be provided as needed.”
What happened during the match?
Messi's injury occurred just six minutes into the August 2 match when he made an aggressive run toward the box and was tripped during the play. After falling to the turf, he attempted to continue but was seen receiving treatment on his upper right leg from the medical staff.
By the 11th minute, Lionel Messi was substituted and walked off the field unassisted, heading directly to the locker room. A massage was applied to the affected area on the sideline, further confirming discomfort in his right thigh.
Upcoming games and Lionel Messi's potential return
Inter Miami faces a critical Leagues Cup group stage match against Pumas UNAM on August 6, where progression to the knockout rounds hangs in the balance. As of now, it appears unlikely that Messi will be risked unless fully fit.
Coach Javier Mascherano is expected to hold a press conference on August 5, where an official update on Messi’s condition and his status for the upcoming game is anticipated.
Looking further ahead, Lionel Messi is also slated to rejoin the Argentina national team for two international fixtures in early September. Whether this recent setback affects his availability for national duty remains to be seen.
Messi's presence has been transformative for Inter Miami, both on and off the pitch. His absence, even if brief, could affect team momentum in the Leagues Cup and potentially alter their postseason ambitions. However, given the nature of the injury and the early intervention, the club and fans alike remain cautiously optimistic.
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