Messi Hamstring Scare — Exits Inter Miami Match Early; Argentina Monitors Fitness 14 Days From Group J Opener

Lionel Messi left Inter Miami's 6-4 MLS win over the Philadelphia Union in the 73rd minute on May 24, clutching the back of his left hamstring. Inter Miami's medical staff subsequently confirmed the issue as a 'muscular overload associated with fatigue' — not a structural tear — offering initial relief for Argentina's World Cup preparations. At 38, Messi's availability remains the most-watched fitness story of the entire tournament. Argentina's first Group J match is June 16 vs Algeria at Children's Mercy Park, Kansas City, giving him time to recover. Pre-tournament friendlies are scheduled for June 6 (vs Honduras) and June 9 (vs Iceland). Messi had been confirmed in Argentina's 55-man provisional squad on May 11; the final 26-man squad is expected May 30, with FIFA publishing all 48 squads simultaneously on June 2. Adidas' 'El Último Tango' boots — widely read as his farewell to international football — add to the anticipation.