Lionel Messi Injury Update: Inter Miami Star Sidelined With Muscle Injury
Lionel Messi, arguably football’s brightest star, faces a fresh spell on the sidelines after a frustrating setback in Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup clash with Necaxa. Messi’s injury comes as Inter Miami is fighting hard in both the Leagues Cup and the MLS, raising questions for fans and teammates hoping to see their captain lead the charge in a packed August schedule.
On X/Twitter, @MARCAinENGLISH: "Lionel Messi picked up an early injury against Necaxa, visibly showing his disappointment and frustration."
On X/Twitter, @psg_chief: "Lionel Messi has picked up a slight muscle issue in his right leg and is likely to be sidelined for about three weeks."
On X/Twitter, @CrewsMat10: "Lionel Messi’s tests confirmed a minor muscle injury in his right leg. His return will depend on his recovery and response to treatment."
What Happened to Messi Against Necaxa?
Messi’s night ended barely after it began at Chase Stadium. In just the eighth minute, Messi drove towards the Necaxa penalty area and collided with defenders Raúl Sánchez and Alexis Peña. Though he tried to push through, Messi was visibly uncomfortable, clutching his right hamstring. Just a few minutes later, in the 11th minute, the 38-year-old signaled to the bench and walked off on his own, straight down the tunnel for treatment.
On X/Twitter, @brfootball: "Lionel Messi left the field in the 11th minute against Necaxa after sustaining an injury."
On X/Twitter, @iChongqing_CIMC: "Lionel Messi exited in the 11th minute of Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup shootout win over Necaxa due to injury. Wishing him a speedy recovery."
Nature of the Injury: Official Details
Inter Miami didn’t let rumors swirl too long. Soon after the game, the club released an official Lionel Messi Injury Update confirming that Messi had suffered a minor muscle injury in his right leg. According to the statement, “Messi underwent medical tests to evaluate the extent of the muscle discomfort.
The results confirmed a minor muscle injury in his right leg. His medical clearance will depend on his clinical progress and response to treatment.” This matches what coach Javier Mascherano shared—that Messi wasn’t in acute pain but definitely felt a hamstring pull and knew not to take chances with it.
On X/Twitter, @Joshua__Ubeku: "Medical tests revealed that Lionel Messi has a minor muscle injury in his right leg, and he is expected to be sidelined for about two weeks."
When Will Lionel Messi Be Back?
The big question—how long will Messi be out? Right now, there’s no firm date. A “minor muscle injury” often points to a Grade 1 strain, which for elite athletes typically resolves within 1-3 weeks, with proper rehab and no aggravation. But with Messi’s age and his intense style of play, Miami’s medical staff is likely to be especially cautious. His return will depend entirely on how his body responds to treatment over the next several days.
Given Inter Miami face Pumas UNAM on August 7, insiders doubt Messi will feature in that Leagues Cup match. Fans can expect more news as the player undergoes daily assessments.
Impact on Inter Miami’s Season
Messi’s absence couldn’t come at a busier time. Miami is fifth in the Eastern Conference, with 42 points from 22 games, but they’re hunting down Philadelphia at the top—holding three games in hand and trailing by just eight points. With 18 goals and nine assists in 18 league matches this year, Messi’s influence is massive, and his ability to tip tight games is unmatched.
In the Necaxa match, even with Messi out, Miami managed to claw their way back, with Jordi Alba bagging a stoppage-time equalizer and Luis Suárez finishing the job in the penalty shootout. Still, for future games, the team and coach Javier Mascherano will be desperate to see their captain fit and firing as they chase silverware.
The Bigger Picture: Messi and Muscle Concerns
Aging footballers sometimes see these muscle niggles become more common. Messi’s had a few warning signs: he rested for minor adductor trouble with Argentina earlier this year and has been carefully managed during packed periods. For now, the club and Messi’s camp insist this is nothing serious—just a moment to hit pause and prioritize long-term health.
The Response: Social Media and Fan Hopes
Since the news broke, social media has exploded with support—from Inter Miami faithful to fans around the world. X and Instagram are full of messages wishing Messi a quick recovery and posting clips of his short but dynamic cameo before the injury.
On X/Twitter, @psg_chief: "This view of the fans and Lionel Messi’s reaction to his injury is heartbreaking. Hoping for a speedy recovery for the king."
On X/Twitter, @SantiSignals: "Lionel Messi sustained an injury just 10 minutes into Inter Miami’s match against Necaxa. His condition is yet to be determined."
What’s Next?
Injuries are part and parcel of sport, even for legends. Inter Miami will likely err on the side of caution, with daily updates expected as Messi hits the recovery room. Fans and football lovers should keep an eye on official channels for the next Lionel Messi Injury Update, knowing the club and player won’t rush a comeback.
The hope remains Messi’s recovery is quick, and the only lasting impact from the Necaxa night will be a stronger Miami side with their captain fully fit when it matters most.
