Inter Miami’s preparations for the 2026 MLS campaign have hit a significant roadblock following the news that Lionel Messi has suffered a hamstring strain. The Argentine superstar and club captain sustained the injury during last Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Barcelona de Guayaquil in Ecuador.
“Unfortunately, I felt some muscle tightness in the last match,” Messi confirmed in an official team statement following further diagnostic testing. The club remains cautious regarding a timeline, noting that his gradual return to training will depend entirely on his clinical and functional progress over the coming days.
The injury has already forced a shuffle in the Herons’ preseason itinerary, with Friday’s scheduled friendly against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico now delayed until February 26. This new date places the fixture just three days before a high-stakes MLS encounter against rivals Orlando City.
Despite the setback, Messi expressed his commitment to the fans in Puerto Rico, stating that the club worked diligently to find an alternative date for the special event. With the season opener against LAFC looming on February 21, all eyes are now on the talisman’s recovery as Miami looks to defend its status.
