Lionel Messi left Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Mexican team Necaxa after just 11 minutes, raising concerns over his fitness. The incident took place on Saturday during Miami’s second group stage fixture, as the club aimed to strengthen their position in the tournament.
The 38-year-old captain went down following a challenge near Necaxa’s penalty area, which led to the coaching staff deciding to substitute him early. The injury occurred despite Messi’s attempts to continue, as the discomfort he felt forced the medical team to intervene promptly.
Immediate Response and Team’s Reaction to Messi’s Injury
Inter Miami’s coach Javier Mascherano explained after the game that Messi “felt discomfort,” but the true extent of the injury would only become clear after further evaluation. He said,
“Well, he felt discomfort, and we will not be able to know until tomorrow how severe the injury is.”
Adding to the uncertainty, Messi’s teammate Telasco Segovia checked on him after the incident and noted,
I asked him [Messi] how he’s doing to check on him, and he told me he’s fine. But I think they haven’t done any tests on him yet.
—Telasco Segovia
Mascherano also commented on Messi’s condition during the moment of injury:
There’s probably something there. Maybe not as important, because he was really not in pain. But he did feel a pull.
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami Coach
Performance and Contract Status Prior to Injury
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has been crucial to the team, scoring 24 goals and assisting 10 times across 31 appearances this season. His contributions include two assists in their previous Leagues Cup match against Atlas on Thursday.
Messi’s contract with the Florida-based club is due to expire at the end of the year, adding another layer of concern among fans and the club regarding his availability for the remainder of the campaign.
The Match Outcome and Miami’s Standing in the Leagues Cup
Despite the setback, Inter Miami managed to finish the game against Necaxa with a 2-2 draw at Chase Stadium. A late goal from Jordi Alba secured the equalizer, ultimately allowing Miami to win 5-4 on penalties.
Mascherano expressed frustration over the result, reflecting on the missed opportunity and the circumstances that unfolded after Messi’s injury:
We were playing the first 15 minutes just as we had planned, we took the lead despite Leo’s injury, and then from a foul that wasn’t a foul, they ended up screwing you in a game that could also screw your qualification – and you’re left looking like an idiot. That’s the reality.
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami Coach
Currently, Inter Miami sit second in the MLS team rankings behind the Portland Timbers, maintaining a strong position as they prepare for the knockout phase of the Leagues Cup.
Upcoming Fixtures and Messi’s Potential Return
The next Leagues Cup group stage match for Miami is scheduled for Wednesday against Pumas, where Messi’s participation remains uncertain pending medical assessment. Following that, the team will resume MLS play with an away match against Orlando City four days later.
With the top four teams from both the United States and Mexico advancing to the quarter-finals later this month, Miami’s progress depends in part on Messi’s recovery and availability as the tournament intensifies.