Lionel Messi is currently dealing with “minor” muscle damage in his right leg, according to Inter Miami’s announcement made on Sunday, following his departure from a match due to a suspected hamstring injury. Head coach Javier Mascherano described the issue as “discomfort” after a League Cup victory over Nekakusa, indicating that further evaluations would occur on Sunday.
The latest updates from Inter Miami provided limited details about Messi’s condition, with no timeline outlined for his return. The team stated, “Messi underwent medical assessments and left the field after evaluating the extent of muscle discomfort experienced during the League Cup match against Nekakisa.” They confirmed mild muscle damage but added that his recovery will depend on his clinical progress and treatment response.
The injury assessment did not specify whether it affected Messi’s hamstring. During the match, Messi fell to the ground after a challenge from a Nekakusa defender and showed visible frustration before slowly making his way to the bench, where he received treatment from an athletic trainer. He eventually left the game under his own power after Miami won a penalty shootout that concluded with a 2-2 tie.
Given Messi’s history of hamstring injuries and his current age of 38, the timeline for his return remains uncertain. Inter Miami is set to host another League Cup match against Pumas Unum on August 6 and will resume MLS competition against Orlando, embarking on a stretch of 12 consecutive MLS games until October 18.
### Fan Take:
This news is crucial for soccer fans as Messi’s absence could significantly impact not only Inter Miami’s performance but also the overall excitement of the League Cup and MLS. His presence in the game elevates the sport, making every match an event, and his injury could reshape the competitive landscape as teams vie for titles without the star player.
