Lionel Messi has sparked serious injury concern for Argentina after leaving Inter Miami's MLS match against Philadelphia Union in the 73rd minute with a muscle problem — just under 20 days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Argentine captain requested to be substituted after feeling discomfort in his left leg, but what alarmed fans most was what happened next: rather than taking his place on the bench, Messi walked straight down the tunnel, holding the back of his left leg as he departed the pitch.

Concern mounts inside Argentina camp

Despite the worry over his fitness, Messi had again played a decisive role in Inter Miami's victory before his early exit. That context, however, offered little comfort to those tracking his physical condition ahead of the tournament.

The concern is amplified by the historical significance of what lies ahead. This World Cup is expected to be Messi's sixth — a milestone achieved by barely a handful of players in the history of the game. Lionel Scaloni's squad are among the favourites to defend the title they won in Qatar 2022, but within the Argentina camp there is a clear-eyed understanding that Messi's influence extends far beyond statistics.

His leadership, his capacity to alter the outcome of matches in a single moment, and the emotional weight he carries for the entire nation make him irreplaceable in a way that no tactical adjustment can fully address.

Talented squad, but Messi remains the heartbeat

Argentina do arrive at this tournament with considerable depth. Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Lautaro Martínez give Scaloni one of the most gifted squads in the competition. Yet even with that quality at his disposal, the prospect of Messi arriving less than fully fit would represent a devastating blow to a side aiming to lift the trophy for a second consecutive time.

The recurring muscle problems Messi has experienced in recent months have begun to raise unavoidable questions about his physical state heading into the biggest stage in world football. Argentina and their supporters will now wait anxiously for further news on the extent of the issue.