Lionel Messi did not participate in Inter Miami’s training session on Wednesday due to a muscle injury, the MLS club confirmed. As a result, the friendly match scheduled for Friday against Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico has been postponed.
The 38-year-old Argentine superstar missed the open practice session, raising concerns among fans and media. Inter Miami later clarified that Messi is dealing with a left hamstring strain sustained during last Saturday’s friendly in Guayaquil against Barcelona SC.
The team’s official statement noted that the discomfort “has persisted since then” and that Messi underwent additional medical examinations which confirmed the diagnosis. “His gradual return to training will depend on his clinical and functional progress in the coming days,” the club added.
In response to the injury, Inter Miami announced the rescheduled friendly will now take place on February 26 at the Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. “The club, in collaboration with the event promoter and the Puerto Rican government, believes that changing the match date will provide the best experience for fans,” the statement read.
Messi addressed fans directly: “Unfortunately, I felt some muscle discomfort in the last game, but we were very excited to see you. Together with the club, we worked to find an alternative date so we can travel and play in Puerto Rico. We know how excited you are, and it will be very special to make it happen soon.”
