A wave of concern swept through Chase Stadium as football icon Lionel Messi prematurely exited Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup clash against Club Necaxa, succumbing to an apparent hamstring injury early in the first half. The unforeseen departure of the talismanic forward cast a shadow over an otherwise anticipated fixture, leaving fans and teammates alike anxious about his condition.

The incident unfolded merely eleven minutes into the match, when Messi, while dribbling menacingly into the box, appeared to make contact with a Necaxa defender. He subsequently stumbled to the ground, visibly frustrated and slamming the pitch in pain, signaling immediate distress in his hamstring region.

Despite his characteristic resilience, attempting to shake off the discomfort for a brief period, the Argentine maestro ultimately recognized the severity of the issue. He promptly sought medical attention on the sidelines before making his way directly into the locker room, underscoring the immediate need for assessment and care.

Following the game, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the media, providing a cautious update on his star player. “Leo felt a discomfort in his hamstring,” Mascherano stated, conveying the initial uncertainty surrounding the injury’s extent. He added that the full diagnosis would only be clear after further examinations, hinting at a potential, albeit possibly minor, setback.

This latest setback revives concerns about Messi’s susceptibility to lower limb injuries, a recurring theme throughout his illustrious career. He has previously contended with various leg ailments, most notably a left adductor issue that sidelined him from crucial World Cup qualifiers for Argentina earlier in the year, highlighting a pattern of physical strain.

Before this unfortunate incident, the 2025 season had seen Messi as a near-constant fixture for Inter Miami, showcasing his enduring commitment and fitness across multiple demanding competitions. His participation spanned 30 games in various tournaments, including the Concacaf Champions Cup, Club World Cup, the Leagues Cup, and the Major League Soccer regular season, demonstrating his pivotal role.

The immediate focus now shifts to the medical team’s evaluation, as the club awaits a comprehensive understanding of the injury’s grade and projected recovery timeline. The absence of a player of Messi’s caliber, even for a short period, could significantly influence Inter Miami’s strategic approach and performance in upcoming pivotal fixtures, particularly within the competitive Leagues Cup.