Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi is undergoing a late fitness test ahead of the upcoming Leagues Cup match against Pumas UNAM after sustaining a muscle injury in last week’s victory over Necaxa. The Argentine star had medical evaluations on Monday, as the club assessed the severity of his condition and his availability for future games remains uncertain.
Inter Miami has confirmed that Messi suffered a minor muscle injury in his right leg during the game against Necaxa, which forced him to leave the field early. However, the club has not ruled out his participation in upcoming matches, explaining that his return depends on how he responds to treatment and progresses clinically.
“Inter Miami CF today has provided an injury update presented by Baptist Health for Inter Miami CF captain Leo Messi. Messi underwent medical tests to evaluate the extent of the muscle discomfort he experienced during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Necaxa, which forced him to leave the field. The results confirmed a minor muscle injury in his right leg. His medical clearance will depend on his clinical progress and response to treatment.”
—Inter Miami CF medical team
After the Necaxa match, teammate Javier Mascherano indicated that Messi was not in serious pain, suggesting the injury might not be severe. He preferred to wait for medical confirmation before making further statements.
“We won’t know anything until tomorrow. Maybe it’s not something serious because he wasn’t in pain, but he felt something.”
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami assistant coach
Fellow player Jordi Alba expressed the team’s disappointment at Messi’s injury, highlighting his importance on the squad and wishing for a quick recovery.
“Very sad for the whole team that the best player in the world, of the history, is injured. He’s an important player. It’s a shame. Hopefully, it’s not serious because we need him.”
—Jordi Alba, Inter Miami midfielder
Messi’s injury occurred in the 11th minute against Necaxa when Inter Miami was leading 1-0. Despite his early exit, the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/soccer/mls/”>MLS side held on to a 2-2 draw in regular time and eventually secured a 5-4 victory through penalties. Before this game, Messi had been in excellent form, netting multiple braces during the MLS season and scoring at the FIFA Club World Cup against FC Porto.
Insights from Javier Mascherano on Messi’s Playing Time Management
Javier Mascherano, who serves on Inter Miami’s coaching staff, shared his approach to managing Messi’s playing time, emphasizing trust in the star’s ability to regulate his own fitness. Mascherano explained that the team respects Messi’s judgment when it comes to resting and playing, always selecting him whenever he is available and feeling fit.
“If Leo is doing well, my idea is to always play him. If there’s anyone who knows how to manage themselves on the field, it’s him. This year we’ve played several games without Leo, and the team did well to make sure his absence wasn’t too noticeable.”
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami assistant coach
Messi’s capacity for self-management has been crucial for Inter Miami, especially given his key role and consistent scoring ability this season. His performance before and after participating in the Club World Cup demonstrated his significant impact on the team’s success.
As Inter Miami prepares to face Pumas UNAM, the team and fans await further updates on Messi’s condition. The club’s statement makes it clear that his fitness will be monitored closely, with decisions contingent on his recovery progress. Messi’s potential availability for this match could influence Inter Miami’s strategies in the Leagues Cup competition, where his contributions remain vital.