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Concerns Rise as Messi Exits Match Early Before World Cup

KVIA•Monday, May 25, 2026 at 2:26 AM•CNN Newsource

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Lionel Messi's early exit during Inter Miami's recent match against the Philadelphia Union has raised concerns among fans and the Argentine national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Messi requested to be substituted in the 72nd minute of a high-scoring game, and instead of joining the bench, he went straight to the locker room, indicating possible discomfort in his left thigh. While there are no official injury reports yet, Inter Miami's coach suggested that Messi was fatigued due to the heavy playing conditions. With the World Cup roster deadline approaching on June 2, any injury could significantly impact Argentina's preparations for their opening match against Algeria on June 16.

Key Details: • Messi left the match in the 72nd minute, requesting a substitution. • He went directly to the locker room instead of the bench, indicating potential injury. • Inter Miami's coach mentioned Messi is fatigued, not officially injured yet. • Argentina must submit their World Cup roster by June 2. • Argentina's first World Cup match is on June 16 against Algeria.

world-cup soccer injury inter-miami messi

People & Organizations

Lionel MessiInter MiamiLionel ScaloniPhiladelphia Union

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