Will Lionel Messi be fit for World Cup 2026? Injury scare puts Argentina on alert

Fresh concerns over Lionel Messi’s fitness have emerged just weeks before the FIFA World Cup 2026, after the Argentine superstar was forced off during Inter Miami’s MLS clash against Philadelphia Union.

The 38-year-old forward was substituted in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami’s dramatic 6-4 victory after appearing to suffer discomfort in the upper part of his left thigh, triggering anxiety among fans and raising questions over Argentina’s preparations for the tournament.

Messi looked uneasy in the closing stages of the match and had noticeably reduced his movement on the field.

Shortly after taking a free kick, the veteran forward clutched his thigh and signalled to the bench before being replaced by Mateo Silvetti.

While the incident immediately sparked injury fears, there was one reassuring sign: Messi walked off the pitch on his own without requiring medical assistance.

Before his exit, the Argentine icon once again played a decisive role for Inter Miami, registering two assists in a high-scoring encounter that saw eight goals scored in the first half alone.

Luis Suarez struck a hat-trick, German Berterame added a brace, while Rodrigo De Paul also got on the scoresheet.

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos later attempted to calm speculation, suggesting the substitution was more of a precaution than a serious concern.

“As far as I know, we don’t have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game. “The field was heavy, and rather than take a risk, we preferred to be careful.”

However, Messi’s injury history at Inter Miami could still leave Argentina supporters nervous. The forward has previously dealt with hamstring-related problems during his time in Major League Soccer.

The timing is particularly sensitive as Argentina are preparing to defend their World Cup crown.

Messi is expected to lead La Albiceleste once again in what could become his record-equalling sixth FIFA World Cup appearance. Argentina are set to begin their campaign against Algeria on June 16 after warm-up fixtures against Honduras and Iceland.

With the tournament now just around the corner, all eyes will be on Messi’s recovery and whether this latest scare turns out to be simple fatigue or a bigger issue for Argentina’s World Cup ambitions.