Lionel Messi 's final Inter Miami appearance before the World Cup ended with an injury scare, despite a wild 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union last Sunday.
The 38-year-old had already provided two assists before leaving in the 73rd minute, after feeling discomfort around his left hamstring.
Messi went straight to the dressing room rather than staying on the bench, turning Miami's ten-goal thriller into a major concern for Argentina .
Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images
However, Argentine journalist Gaston Edul has now reported that Messi did not suffer a muscle injury, easing fears before Argentina's World Cup opener.
Writing on X, Edul said: "Leo Messi requested the substitution as a precaution because his hamstring tightened up. He has no muscle injury. He didn't keep loading the area or taking risks."
If that update proves correct, Messi's decision looks like experience rather than panic. He felt the warning sign and avoided pushing the area further.
That matters because this is expected to be his last World Cup, and he is still a crucial part of Argentina's plans.
Messi has 13 goals and seven assists in 16 matches this season, maintaining elite production despite the physical management that now surrounds him.
Argentina open their campaign against Algeria on 16 June, giving Messi 22 days from 25 May to prepare and protect the hamstring before the tournament begins.
For Argentina supporters, Edul's update changes the tone. The scare remains until any official confirmation regarding the matter emerges, but the first indication is relief rather than crisis.
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