Overview
- Messi signaled for a substitution and left in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami’s 6-4 win over Philadelphia, appearing to touch the back of his left leg as he walked directly to the tunnel.
- He had already delivered two assists in the game that featured an MLS record eight first‑half goals before heavy rain slowed play in the second half.
- Interim coach Guillermo Hoyos described the change as precautionary and blamed fatigue and a heavy pitch, but the club has not released a formal medical report or scan results.
- Journalists on site and social‑media reporter Fabrizio Romano said Inter Miami staff will assess the issue, leaving Messi’s availability for Argentina’s June 1 camp and friendlies on June 6 and June 9 undecided.
- Messi is rarely substituted and his fitness is central to Argentina’s title defense, so medical evaluations in the coming days will determine whether rest or further treatment is required before the June 16 World Cup opener.