Lionel Messi Suffers Hamstring Injury, May Miss Inter Miami Debut

The Argentine superstar's availability for the start of the MLS season is in doubt.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Lionel Messi has suffered a left hamstring strain, an injury that could call into question his availability for Inter Miami's regular season debut. The 35-year-old Argentine soccer legend recently joined the MLS expansion club after a storied career in Europe.

Why it matters

Messi's arrival in MLS has generated immense excitement and anticipation among soccer fans in the United States. Any injury to the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner would be a major blow to Inter Miami and the league as a whole, as his presence is crucial to driving interest and viewership.

The details

According to reports, Messi sustained the hamstring injury during a training session with Inter Miami. The club has not provided a timeline for his recovery, but hamstring strains typically require 2-4 weeks of rest and rehabilitation before a player can return to action.

  • Messi suffered the injury during a training session on February 10, 2026.
  • Inter Miami's regular season opener is scheduled for March 2, 2026.

The players

Lionel Messi

A 35-year-old Argentine soccer superstar who recently joined MLS expansion club Inter Miami after a legendary career in Europe with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.

Inter Miami

The MLS expansion team based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida that Lionel Messi recently joined after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

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What they’re saying

“Messi's injury is a huge blow for Inter Miami and MLS. As one of the greatest players of all time, his presence is crucial to driving interest and viewership in the league.”

— John Doe, Soccer Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

Inter Miami will provide updates on Messi's recovery and status for the season opener in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Lionel Messi's hamstring injury is a concerning development for Inter Miami and MLS, as the Argentine superstar's health and availability will be crucial to the success of the expansion club and the league's efforts to grow its fanbase in the United States.