Inter Miami faces a significant pre-season setback as their captain, Lionel Messi, has sustained an injury ahead of the new Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The Argentine superstar suffered a left-leg hamstring strain during a friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador on 8 February. Consequently, the club has postponed their scheduled friendly in Puerto Rico by two weeks.
In an official statement early today, Inter Miami confirmed that Messi did not participate in training on 11 February due to the injury. “Medical evaluations have confirmed a muscle strain in his left hamstring,” the statement read. “His return to full training will depend on his physical recovery.”
The friendly against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico, originally set for 13 February, has now been rescheduled to 26 February. The club emphasised that the decision was made “to ensure the best possible experience for our supporters.”
| Event | Original Date | Rescheduled Date | Opponent | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puerto Rico friendly | 13 February | 26 February | Independiente del Valle | Messi left hamstring injury |
| MLS season opener | 22 February | – | Los Angeles FC | Messi’s fitness uncertain |
While the immediate impact is on the friendly, Messi’s availability for Inter Miami’s MLS season opener against Los Angeles FC on 22 February remains a key concern. His fitness will be closely monitored, as any delay in recovery could pose a strategic challenge for the defending champions at the start of the campaign.
Messi addressed fans directly on social media to temper disappointment, saying in a video message: “I had to leave the last match feeling some discomfort. After discussions with the club and organisers, we decided to postpone the game. I hope to see you all very soon.”
The rescheduling has also sparked renewed discussion over ticketing and event preparations in Puerto Rico, with supporters and organisers adjusting to the updated timetable. Inter Miami previously faced criticism during their 2024 Hong Kong tour when Messi missed a match due to injury, highlighting the challenges of managing the team’s global commitments alongside the superstar’s fitness.
As the MLS season draws near, the focus now turns to Messi’s recovery timeline. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether the club can navigate the early season without their captain at full strength, particularly as they aim to defend their title.