Lionel Messi: Argentine Sidelined by Lingering Injury as US Open Cup Final Nears

In a surprising twist, Lionel Messi, the illustrious Argentine footballer, found himself relinquishing the captain’s armband to DeAndre Yedlin as he was unexpectedly forced off the field after just 37 minutes during his comeback for Inter Miami. However, despite Messi’s premature exit, his teammates went on to secure a resounding 4-0 victory over Toronto FC.

Messi’s absence during Miami’s previous match, a disheartening 5-2 loss to Atlanta, was attributed to fatigue, but his current setback raises doubts about his availability for the impending US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo. According to Manager Gerardo Martino, the 36-year-old maestro is grappling with an “old injury,” casting shadows of uncertainty over his participation in this crucial fixture.

Interestingly, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner remained conspicuously absent from Argentina’s squad in their recent clash against Bolivia, a decision made by national team coach Lionel Scaloni. This adds another layer of intrigue to Messi’s fitness woes, sparking debates about his readiness for competitive action.

Jordi Alba, Messi’s former teammate from Barcelona, also suffered an injury blow during the match against Toronto. Manager Martino, with an air of conviction, asserted that both Messi and Alba would certainly be sidelined for Sunday’s encounter with Orlando City, leaving no room for speculation. “There is no chance they will be there on Sunday,” Martino affirmed, leaving fans to lament their absence.

It’s worth noting that Inter Miami’s fortunes have been closely tied to Messi since his arrival at the MLS club in July. Incredibly, they have not suffered defeat in any of the 11 matches that have featured the Argentine magician. His impact on the team is undeniable, and his presence on the pitch often translates to sheer dominance.

Despite initial scans conducted during his time with the national team not revealing any visible injury, Martino and his team exercised caution, choosing to rest Messi for his well-being. “We don’t think he has a muscular injury,” Martino revealed, based on his conversation with Messi. Nonetheless, they remain vigilant, committing to monitor his condition in the coming days to ensure a full recovery.

Argentina’s national team manager, Scaloni, shed light on Messi’s absence from international duty, explaining that the football legend “was not ready to play” and simply “did not feel comfortable.” Such insights into Messi’s physical state only deepen the intrigue surrounding his fitness as the football world eagerly awaits his return to the pitch.

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More about Lionel Messi Injury

• Lionel Messi – Detailed information about Lionel Messi’s career and achievements.
• Inter Miami CF – Official website of Inter Miami CF, Messi’s current club.
• US Open Cup – Official website for the US Open Cup, where Messi’s team is competing in the final.
• Gerardo Martino – Learn more about the manager of Inter Miami CF.
• Ballon d’Or – Information about the Ballon d’Or, an award won multiple times by Messi.
• Jordi Alba – Profile of Jordi Alba, Messi’s former teammate from Barcelona.
• Argentina National Football Team – Information about the Argentina national football team, where Messi has represented his country.
• Houston Dynamo – Official website of the Houston Dynamo, Inter Miami’s opponent in the US Open Cup final.
• MLS – Official website of Major League Soccer, where Messi currently plays.