Messi Set for More Tests Ahead Of World Cup But Argentina Are Optimistic

The Argentina national team remains optimistic about the fitness of Lionel Messi after the football superstar suffered muscle fatigue just weeks before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi is expected to undergo more medical tests in the coming days after he was forced to leave Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer match against Philadelphia Union due to discomfort in his left hamstring.

The injury concern started when Messi appeared to struggle physically during the second half of Inter Miami’s dramatic 6-4 victory. The Argentine captain was seen holding the back of his thigh before asking to be substituted in the 73rd minute of the match. Medical staff quickly attended to him, and the club later confirmed that the 38-year-old was dealing with muscle overload and fatigue in his left hamstring.

Despite the worrying scenes, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni tried to calm fears surrounding the condition of his captain. Scaloni said the first reports were “not that bad” and explained that the team would wait for additional examinations before making any final decision regarding Messi’s recovery timeline. The coach also admitted that everyone in the Argentina camp was relieved Messi decided to come off early rather than risk making the problem more serious.

Messi remains the most important player in the Argentina squad as the defending world champions prepare for another major international tournament. Even at 38 years old, he continues to lead the national side both on and off the field. Argentina are expected to rely heavily on his experience, leadership, and creativity as they begin their World Cup campaign next month. The tournament could also become Messi’s historic sixth World Cup appearance, matching the all-time record.

Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos also sounded positive after the match. He explained that the heavy playing surface and a busy schedule may have caused extra fatigue for Messi, adding that the club did not want to take any unnecessary risks with the veteran forward. According to the club, Messi’s return to training will depend completely on how his body responds during recovery over the next several days.

Argentina are scheduled to play two friendly matches before the World Cup officially begins, and the medical staff hope Messi will recover in time to participate. Fans around the world are now closely following every update related to the football icon, with many hoping to see him fully fit for what could possibly be the final World Cup tournament of his legendary career.

The injury has naturally created concern among supporters, but the overall mood inside the Argentina camp remains hopeful. Early medical assessments suggest the problem is linked more to fatigue than to a serious tear or long-term injury. As further tests continue, Argentina believe their captain still has a strong chance of being ready for the opening stages of the tournament.