Lionel Messi’s injury in the MLS has sent shockwaves through the football world, with the approach of the 2026 World Cup intensifying concerns about the Argentine icon’s physical condition. The Inter Miami forward had to leave the match against Philadelphia Union in the 79th minute, with the score tied at four goals, raising immediate questions about the severity of his left thigh muscle issue.
Argentine national team coach Lionel Scaloni revealed that the situation requires caution and that it is still too early to draw definitive conclusions. “We were watching the game at the training center and noticed that he asked to come off because he wasn’t feeling well,” the 2022 World Cup-winning coach confessed to DSports. Scaloni added that, although the initial medical report indicated “muscle fatigue in the left calf,” further tests will be conducted to assess the true condition of the Albiceleste captain.
Concerns are heightened considering Messi is approaching 38 years old, yet he remains a key player for Argentina in their bid to defend their World Cup title—a feat that no men’s team has achieved in over six decades. “We would like him to arrive at the tournament without any issues, but many players come with some unresolved injuries. Our goal is to recover them so that they are in the best possible condition,” Scaloni revealed, emphasizing the struggle to ensure the star’s presence at the World Cup.
Despite the uncertain scenario, Messi’s call-up for the World Cup seems practically guaranteed. The Argentine coach has yet to announce the official list, but the presence of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is considered indisputable, especially due to his impact on Argentina’s journey in the decisive stages of the competition.
Messi is on his way to his sixth World Cup, equalling the historic record of appearances shared with Cristiano Ronaldo, and he could also break an absolute record for matches played in the competition. With 26 matches to his name, the Argentine is already the male player with the most games in World Cup finals, but he is four away from matching the legend of women’s football Kristine Lilly, who holds the record with 30 games played in World Cups.
If he participates in four matches at the 2026 World Cup, Messi will match that mark; with five, he will surpass it, creating a new historical benchmark in world football. Argentina could play up to eight matches if they reach the final or the third-place match, increasing the chances of the star leaving his definitive mark in the history of the beautiful game.
As the countdown to the World Cup intensifies, all eyes are now on the medical examinations that will determine Lionel Messi’s immediate future — and, likely, the fate of Argentina’s ambitions next summer. The tension is palpable among fans and experts, who are eagerly awaiting updates, as the genius of world football continues to defy time and adversity.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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