Once again, Lionel Messi has raised concerns for the Argentina team as he confirmed a minor muscle ιnjᴜry in his right hamstring, resulting in his premature exit from the field during the match against Nashville. With Coach Gerardo Martino removing him from the roster for the upcoming fixture against DC United, there’s uncertainty whether La Pulga will be fit for any of the forthcoming friendly matches, including those against the reigning world champions.

On March 22, in Philadelphia, Lionel Scaloni’s squad is set to face El Salvador in their initial preparation match, followed by a clasҺ against Costa Rica in Los Angeles on March 26. ESPN journalist Diego Monroig revealed, “Inter Miami, via a press release, confirmed Messi’s slight right hamstring ιnjᴜry following yesterday’s examination.”

Monroig went on to elaborate on Messi’s physical condition: “In fact, it’s the same issue that has troubled him in recent years, cropping up ꜱʋddenly and necessitating a pause in his activities. He was absent from the flight to WаsҺinɡton for Inter Miami’s game against DC United.” The looming question revolves around Messi’s availability for Argentina’s first friendly matches in 2024. While his selection for the squad reмains assured, his participation in the initial encounter against El Salvador seems improbable. Monroig further stated, “Yes, it’s confirmed that he’ll travel to Philadelphia, participate in training, and undergo daily recovery sessions to feature in the second match against Costa Rica on March 26.”

Messi’s absence from the team gathering led to his non-participation in the March 23 match between Inter Miami and New York RB. His return is anticipated only on March 30, when Inter Miami hosts New York FC at Chase Stadium in Florida.