Lionel Messi has proven to be a transformational arrival for Inter Miami, helping them notch three major trophies so far. However, the Herons captain has reportedly picked up an injury and could be a doubt for their 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) opener.
Lionel Messi Is Doubtful for the Upcoming Inter Miami Game
According to journalist Franco Panizo, Messi missed Inter Miami’s latest training session this Wednesday, Feb. 11. The 38-year-old attacker appeared to be injured during the Herons’ 2-2 pre-season friendly draw against Barcelona SC earlier on Saturday, Feb. 7.
During his team’s draw against Barcelona SC at Monumental Banco Pichincha in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Messi netted the opener in the 31st minute with a confident left-footed shot. After Joao Rojas’ equalizer, he provided an assist to German Berterame before the break.
However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was replaced by Luis Suarez in the 58th minute of the contest against the Ecuadorian side. He completed 22 of his 25 passes, created three chances, and completed two of his six dribbles during the pre-season friendly.
With the Argentine missing Wednesday morning’s training session with his club teammates, he could miss Inter Miami’s upcoming friendly game against Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle. His team will next be in action in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, this Friday.
Following their final pre-season friendly match, the Herons will lock horns with Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in their 2026 MLS season opener. They will begin their MLS Cup title defense at the LA Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday, Feb. 21.
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Meanwhile, former Wales international Robert Earnshaw has backed Messi to still be a vital player for any top European team despite him set to turn 39 in June this year.
“It’s really special that we get to see (him play) still. But he can play in any league and any international team as well. He could play in the UEFA Champions League now. Three weeks before he retires, he would still be able to play at that level. The key is being able to make an impact, and that is what he brings,” Earnshaw told GOAL.
The former Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps, and Chicago Fire striker continued, “In every little detail and area of his game, he will be able to make an impact in any league… that is why he can choose. It doesn’t matter if he is playing against Manchester City or Barcelona or Real Madrid or LA Galaxy, he will still be able to make a big impact.”
The two-time MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) winner relished an excellent 2025 campaign, registering 43 goals and 26 assists across 49 games for Inter Miami.
