Messi suffers hamstring blow before 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi (39) picked up muscle fatigue in his left hamstring while playing for Inter Miami against Philadelphia Union on Sunday, forced off in the 73rd minute. Club statement confirms: "Initial diagnosis indicates overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. Timeline for return depends on clinical and functional progress." Argentina faces uncertainty as they prepare for Group J (Algeria, Austria, Jordan) at the 2026 World Cup. Before the tournament, they'll play Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 in friendlies. Messi's availability for these matches and potentially the World Cup remains unclear as medical monitoring continues. The 39-year-old superstar's fitness could significantly impact Argentina's tournament prospects given his leadership role and crucial performances in major competitions.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/05/26/2026-world-cup-argentina-suffer-messi-injury-blow/