Inter Miami’s renowned player Lionel Messi is grappling with a leg injury, which is likely to sideline him for the team’s upcoming match.
Messi’s departure from Wednesday’s triumphant 3-1 victory over Nashville occurred merely moments into the second half. Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino disclosed that the 36-year-old felt discomfort in his right hamstring region, prompting his early exit from the game as a precautionary measure.
Martino conveyed, with the aid of a translator, “He is overloaded in the right posterior. We don’t want to run a risk. We tried to see if he could go further along (in the game), but it was bothering him so we preferred to have him get out of the game.”
Before his substitution in the 50th minute, Messi contributed significantly with a goal and an assist.
Inter Miami’s advancement to the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals, alongside a 5-3 lead in aggregate goals in the total-goals series, was celebrated following the victory over Nashville.
Martino hinted that Messi is likely to sit out Inter Miami’s MLS match against D.C. United on Saturday, adopting a cautious approach to his recovery.
Prior to this injury, Messi had showcased unwavering commitment, featuring in every minute of the season until being rested during Sunday’s 3-2 loss to Montreal.
The injury saga traces back to the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 clash against Nashville last Thursday. Messi sustained the injury late in regulation when Nashville defender Lukas MacNaughton inadvertently stepped on his calf. Despite the discomfort, Messi soldiered on, receiving on-field medical attention but choosing to continue playing.
Entering Sunday’s match against Montreal, Messi was listed as questionable due to a shin injury.
Martino disclosed on Wednesday that Messi would undergo further tests, with the team proceeding based on the evaluation results.
Inter Miami finds itself amidst a demanding March schedule featuring seven matches, four of which are condensed within a 10-day window. Despite this setback, Messi is anticipated to join the Argentinian national team for a pair of Copa America warm-up matches scheduled for March 22 and 26.
