Lionel Messi sparked fresh injury concerns ahead of the upcoming World Cup after asking to be substituted during Inter Miami’s MLS match against the Philadelphia Union on May 24. The 38-year-old forward appeared to clutch the back of his left leg before leaving the pitch in the 73rd minute, though he was later seen walking normally.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos suggested the substitution was precautionary, citing fatigue and difficult pitch conditions following wet weather in Miami. Messi, who has carefully managed recurring hamstring issues since joining the club in 2023, has not officially confirmed he will play in the tournament, though he is widely expected to feature for Argentina. The national team’s squad is due to be announced next week, with Argentina set to open its World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16.
Lionel Messi is considered one of the greatest soccer players in history, with a legendary career that includes multiple Ballon d’Or awards, Champions League titles, and a World Cup victory with Argentina in 2022. Click through the following gallery to revisit some of the defining moments from his remarkable journey.