Inter Miami’s star forward, Lionel Messi, was forced to leave the pitch just 11 minutes into Saturday’s Leagues Cup clash against Necaxa due to discomfort in his right hamstring, according to manager Javier Mascherano. The injury interrupted a remarkable streak of fitness for the 38-year-old, who had played every minute of Inter Miami’s previous 16 matches across the MLS regular season and FIFA Club World Cup.

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient, had recently returned to action in Miami’s Leagues Cup opener against Atlas, where he delivered two assists, including one for the decisive goal in a 2-1 win. However, his early exit in the Necaxa match, which ended in a 2-2 draw followed by a 5-4 penalty shootout victory for Miami, marked a setback. The Herons secured the draw despite being down to 10 players after Marcelo Weigandt’s red card, with Telasco Segovia scoring soon after Messi’s departure.

Despite not finding the net in the Leagues Cup, Messi remains tied for the MLS lead with 18 goals this season. His recent consistency contrasts sharply with his first two MLS campaigns, where injuries, including a significant leg muscle tear during the 2024 Copa America final, limited him to only 19 games in his first full season. Even so, he managed 20 goals and 16 assists in 2024, earning the MLS MVP award.

Messi’s latest injury raises concerns about his availability, especially after missing the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, which led to a one-match suspension. Fans and the team alike will hope for a swift recovery for the Argentine legend.