Inter Miami confirmed Lionel Messi exited Sunday's win over Philadelphia Union due to muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. The 36-year-old captain requested substitution in the 73rd minute after taking a free kick, visibly grabbing his upper left thigh before heading to the locker room. Medical tests revealed an overload associated with muscle fatigue, with no return timeline provided.

Coach Guillermo Hoyos dismissed injury concerns, stating Messi was simply tired playing on heavy field conditions. The Argentina international walked off unassisted, replaced by Mateo Silvetti. Inter Miami's announcement emphasized the diagnosis depends on clinical progress, leaving uncertainty about Messi's availability as the team approaches the World Cup break following Sunday's final match.

The situation raises questions about Messi's fitness for Argentina's World Cup campaign, which begins June 16 against Algeria. Manager Lionel Scaloni has yet to announce his 26-player roster for the tournament. Argentina faces Algeria, Austria and Jordan in Group J, plus friendlies against Honduras and Iceland. The defending champions will need their captain fully fit if they hope to retain their crown in Kansas City, Missouri.