Inter Miami: Messi hurt, uncertainty ahead of the restart and the Finalissima

Suffering a muscle strain, Lionel Messi could miss the start of the MLS season and his participation in the showdown against Spain in March is in doubt.

A setback for Lionel Messi just days before the MLS season kickoff. Inter Miami announced that their captain is suffering from a muscle strain at the level of the tendon, sustained during a friendly match played in Ecuador against Barcelona SC.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner did not take part in training on Wednesday, and further examinations confirmed the nature of the injury. In a statement, the Florida-based club says that the return will be gradual, according to the player’s clinical and functional progress. No return date has been announced.

This absence comes at the worst possible moment for Inter Miami, who will kick off the season on February 22 with a trip to the Los Angeles FC. Messi’s participation in this match seems compromised.

Beyond the club, Argentina is also holding its breath. The Finalissima against Spain, scheduled for March 27, could also be at risk if the world champion’s recovery were to be prolonged. A setback that forces Javier Mascherano to rethink his plans at the start of the season.