Messi's Comeback in Doubt: Hamstring Injury Forces Puerto Rico Match Delay
Messi sidelined by hamstring strain; return depends on progress.
Lionel Messi’s return to competitive action remains uncertain, as Inter Miami confirmed that the Argentine star is undergoing a gradual return to training, with his availability dependent on his medical progress in the coming days. The Major League Soccer (MLS) club said Messi’s reintegration into full team activities will be guided by his “clinical and functional progress”, offering no specific timeline for his comeback.
The defending MLS Cup champions are set to begin their 2026 campaign against Los Angeles FC on February 21, placing added focus on Messi’s fitness ahead of the season opener. Inter Miami’s preparations have been closely watched, given the team’s high-profile status and Messi’s influence on both performance and commercial appeal since joining the league.
In a related development, Inter Miami’s scheduled exhibition match against Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico has been postponed. The club announced that the fixture, originally planned for Friday, will now take place on February 26—just three days before Miami is due to face MLS rivals Orlando City. The revised date tightens the team’s schedule during a crucial early stretch of the season.
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Addressing fans in Puerto Rico, Messi expressed regret over the delay but assured supporters that efforts were made to reschedule the encounter. “We were really looking forward to seeing you,” Messi said in a statement. “So together with the club we worked on finding an alternative date to be able to travel and play in Puerto Rico.”
He acknowledged the enthusiasm surrounding the club’s visit, adding, “We know the excitement and the desire you have to watch an Inter Miami match, and it will be very special to make it happen soon.” The rescheduled fixture is expected to draw significant attention, reflecting Messi’s continued global appeal and Inter Miami’s expanding international footprint.
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