Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar, has picked up a hamstring injury just 10 days prior to Inter Miami’s opening match of the MLS season. This injury occurred during a friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador, where he contributed with a goal and an assist. As a precaution, Inter Miami is treating the star forward’s condition as a day-to-day issue, meaning his availability for the start of the regular season remains uncertain.

“Messi did not participate in training this Wednesday, February 11, due to a muscle strain in his left hamstring sustained during the match against Barcelona SC in Ecuador, which has persisted since then,” Miami stated.

The team is set to kick off the season against Los Angeles FC on February 21, a match that could prove challenging without their leading player. Given Messi’s age and upcoming commitments to the 2026 World Cup, both his club and coaching staff, led by Javier Mascherano, will be mindful not to rush his return.

With Messi’s prior season seeing him contribute significantly to Miami’s success, the club will need to ensure he is fit for the long haul rather than just the initial games. It will be essential to manage his health given the team’s participation in multiple competitions, including the Concacaf Champions Cup and MLS play this year.

Moreover, Inter Miami is preparing to launch their new home at Miami Freedom Park later in the season, a significant milestone they hope Messi will lead.