Argentina coach optimistic over Messi’s fitness ahead of World Cup

Lionel Messi could still be fit for the upcoming World Cup after Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed optimism over the superstar’s injury situation.

Messi was diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring after he was substituted in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami’s thrilling 6-4 victory over Philadelphia on Sunday.

The 38-year-old forward, who is expected to lead Argentina’s title defence at the World Cup, remains a key figure for the South American side despite concerns over his fitness just weeks before the tournament begins.

“Obviously we would have preferred that nothing had happened,” Scaloni told Argentine television station DSports on Tuesday.

“Now one has to wait and see how it evolves and above all the new tests they are going to conduct in order to see if it confirms their original diagnosis.”

Scaloni added that he watched the match from the Argentine federation headquarters and felt relieved when Messi requested to be substituted.

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos explained after the match that the heavy pitch conditions and Messi’s fatigue influenced the decision to take him off in order to avoid further injury.

In a statement issued on Monday, Inter Miami said Messi’s return would depend on his “clinical and functional progress,” without providing a definite timeline for recovery.

Messi diagnosed with left hamstring fatigue ahead of World Cup

Argentina are scheduled to open their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City before facing Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 28 in Group J.

Messi has carefully managed his playing schedule since joining Inter Miami in 2023, often sitting out matches during congested fixture periods.

Although the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to officially confirm his participation at the tournament, he is widely expected to feature in what would be a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.

His long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa are also in line to make sixth appearances at the global tournament.

Argentina will play warm-up friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 in the United States before heading into the World Cup.