Following Inter Miami CF’s wild 6-4 win over the Philadelphia Union on Sunday, Lionel Messi raised an injury flag before this month’s FIFA World Cup.
The Argentine sensation was replaced in the 73rd minute after he appeared to hold the back of his thigh following one of his signature free kicks.
Coach Says Messi Was Suffering From Fatigue
Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos had no immediate medical report to provide but indicated the switch was largely precautionary.
According to Hoyos:
Messi was clearly worn out in the game
The strenuous pitch conditions added a physical strain
The coaches chose wisdom over risk
“He was tired, the pitch was heavy and when in doubt you always back off,” Hoyos said after the match.
World Cup Preparations Underway
And with that, Major League Soccer will take a break for the FIFA World Cup being jointly hosted by:
United States
Canada
Mexico
The tournament is being held from 11 June to 19 July.
Messi was included in a provisional 55-man squad announced by Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and must be reduced to 26 players before FIFA’s June 1 deadline.
Argentina Begin Title Defence in June
Four years ago in Qatar Messi helped the Argentina national football team win the World Cup.
Argentina will kick off their title defence for the World Cup in Kansas City (June 16) versus Algeria national football team.