Messi Sidelined With Hamstring Issue After Early Exit vs. Philadelphia

By: J.J. Pavlick |Miami, FL | May 25, 2026 |

MIAMI, FL — Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi faces time on the sidelines after he left Sunday’s match against the Philadelphia Union with what the club called physical discomfort.

Injury Update

The club said Monday that medical testing showed an overload linked to muscle fatigue in Messi’s left hamstring, according to an update from Baptist Health.

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos said he had not yet received a full medical briefing. “I haven’t received a report yet. I’ll wait for the medical update before I say anything,” Hoyos said after the match. He said Messi showed clear signs of fatigue before asking to come off. “He was tired, and the pitch was heavy. When you’re unsure, you protect him and avoid any risk.”

Messi left the May 24 match in the first half after signaling to the bench. Inter Miami went on to win 6–4 in a wild, high‑scoring match against the Union.

Messi entered the game after playing 803 minutes across nine matches in 33 days — a demanding stretch that left little room for recovery.

What It Means for Argentina and Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami did not give a timetable for his return and said his availability depends on how he responds to treatment in the coming days.

The 36‑year‑old forward has driven Miami’s strong start to the season, and his absence will test the club’s depth during a crowded stretch of the MLS calendar. For now, Miami waits — and so does Argentina.

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