Messi’s 73rd‑Minute Exit Raises World Cup Fitness Questions

Inter Miami faced the Philadelphia Union in Miami’s wet, heavy‑pitch conditions on Sunday. The Argentine forward clutched his left leg and walked off the field unaided before heading straight down the tunnel. He did not return, and the club substituted him at the 73‑minute mark.

Coach Guillermo Hoyos explained the decision after the match. He said there was no medical report confirming an injury; instead, Messi was “fatigued.” Hoyos added that the heavy pitch and the team’s risk‑averse policy justified the precautionary change.

Messi, 38, has not yet signed a formal declaration to join Argentina’s squad for the upcoming World Cup. Analysts expect him to target a sixth tournament, which would tie the record for most World Cup appearances. Since arriving in Major League Soccer in 2023, he has managed his minutes carefully, but previous hamstring setbacks have already limited his playing time.

The substitution fuels speculation about his durability. Argentina’s medical staff will likely conduct a thorough assessment before finalising the roster. If fatigue reappears in training or matches, it could force a decision to rest the player for the tournament, altering Argentina’s attacking options.

For Inter Miami, the incident underscores the challenge of balancing star power with squad depth. The club must prepare alternatives in case Messi’s availability diminishes as the season progresses.

What to watch next: Argentina’s official squad announcement and any medical updates from Messi in the weeks leading up to the World Cup.