Lionel Messi has sparked concern at Inter Miami after picking up an injury during Saturday’s Leagues Cup match against Necaxa.
Just days after returning from an MLS suspension, the Argentine superstar was forced to leave the game early in the first half.
Messi, wearing his iconic No. 10 jersey, went down clutching his right leg after trying to dribble past four Necaxa defenders. Although play continued briefly as Necaxa cleared the ball, Messi made his way toward the sideline before dropping to the turf, signaling he could no longer continue.
Inter Miami’s medical team rushed onto the field to assess the injury, which appeared to be muscular. After a few minutes of treatment, the decision was made to substitute him. Federico Redondo came off the bench to replace the captain.
Messi then walked slowly off the pitch and was seen heading down the tunnel toward the home locker room at Chase Stadium, followed closely by television cameras capturing every step.