Inter Miami secured a dramatic win over Necaxa in the Leagues Cup 2025, but the main concern wasn’t the result — it was the early substitution of Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar left the field in the 11th minute after signaling discomfort, prompting concern from fans and cameras fixated on his serious expression.

What kind of injury did Messi suffer?

After the match, head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Messi “felt discomfort in his hamstring,” and said the club would wait for medical tests to determine the full extent of the injury. While there’s no official diagnosis yet, early estimates suggest Messi could be sidelined for three to four weeks, depending on the results.

How would Messi’s absence impact Inter Miami?

The timing of the injury could be particularly damaging for Inter Miami. With a demanding schedule ahead in Major League Soccer (MLS) and a continued run in the Leagues Cup, the potential absence of Messi could force a major tactical reshuffle.

His availability for the midweek clash against Pumas UNAM is now in serious doubt, as well as for the club’s return to league play over the weekend.

Was this due to fixture congestion?

Messi had just completed 16 consecutive full matches, totaling over 2,500 minutes in recent months. This heavy workload may have played a role in the injury, particularly considering his age and the physical toll of tournaments like the Leagues Cup.

What’s next for Messi and Inter Miami?

Medical evaluations will take place on Sunday and Monday, after which the club will have a clearer picture of Messi’s recovery timeline. Until then, fans across Miami and the United States are anxiously awaiting positive news on the health of their most iconic player.