Messi Leaves MLS Match Early With Apparent Left Thigh Issue

Lionel Messi left the field in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami's 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union on Sunday after indicating discomfort in his left thigh. Messi touched the upper part of his left leg around the 70th minute and signaled for a substitution. He walked off without assistance and went directly to the locker room. Mateo Silvetti replaced him.

Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni must submit the 26-player roster to FIFA by June 1. Messi's participation depends on his fitness level at that deadline. Messi had avoided injuries in recent months while balancing club and national team preparation. He and teammate Rodrigo De Paul added extra training sessions beyond Inter Miami's schedule to reach peak condition.

Miami head coach Javier Mascherano and interim manager Guillermo Hoyos adjusted Messi's playing time during stretches of three matches in eight days. Messi and De Paul both sat out the March 14 match against Charlotte FC during a congested schedule.

Messi started against Philadelphia and recorded two assists before the substitution. 8 meters by the 59th minute and contributed to three of Inter Miami's six goals. A heavy rainstorm in the second half caused players to slip on the field. Messi slipped near the Philadelphia penalty area in the 62nd minute before requesting the substitution minutes later.