Lionel Messi’s Injury: Which Shocking Matches Could He Be Forced to Sit Out for Inter Miami?

You know, when Lionel Messi landed a knock during Inter Miami’s intense 2–2 battle against Necaxa—which, by the way, Miami clinched in penalties—it immediately set off alarm bells. After all, he’s their captain, their heartbeat on the pitch. Fast forward 24 hours, and the truth came out: a minor muscle injury in his right leg. The club, always transparent with their fans, confirmed this on Sunday and assured everyone that Messi will undergo clinical follow-ups as he nurses this setback. Given the demanding schedule with MLS and the Leagues Cup looming large, Messi is likely to be sidelined for two to three weeks—a stretch that could really test the squad’s depth and resolve. Curiosity piqued? Dive deeper into all the details here — LEARN MORE .

Lionel Messi underwent medical tests after picking up a knock in Inter Miami’s 2–2 draw against Necaxa on Saturday (which the MLS side won on penalties). The extent of the injury was revealed 24 hours later.

On Sunday, Inter Miami confirmed that their captain sustained a minor muscle injury in his right leg and will be monitored with clinical follow-ups as he recovers. The club released an official statement detailing the diagnosis.

Based on the medical evaluation and the team’s packed schedule across MLS and Leagues Cup, Messi is expected to be sidelined for approximately two to three weeks, depending on his progress.

Matches he will miss

During that span, Inter Miami will play the following matches:

• Wednesday, August 6 vs. Pumas UNAM | Leagues Cup
• Sunday, August 10 vs. Orlando City (Florida Derby) | MLS
• Saturday, August 16 vs. LA Galaxy | MLS

If Inter Miami qualifies for the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, Messi would also likely miss that match, scheduled for either Tuesday, August 19 or Wednesday, August 20.

If the team advances even further, the schedule continues as follows:

• Leagues Cup Semifinals: Tuesday, August 26 & Wednesday, August 27
• Final / Third Place Match: Sunday, August 31

see also

Inter Miami issue first official injury update on Lionel Messi after Leagues Cup match

Messi’s numbers this season with Inter Miami

Since the start of the 2025 regular season and including international competitions, Messi has played 31 matches, recording 24 goals and 10 assists. His absence will be a major test for Mascherano’s side as they look to maintain momentum in both the Leagues Cup and MLS standings.