Lionel Messi sidelined by hamstring injury amid postponement of Puerto Rico fixture

Lionel Messi skipped training with Inter Miami on Wednesday due to a persistent strain in his left hamstring, which led the team to postpone their fixture in Puerto Rico, according to the MLS outfit.

The Argentine forward and Inter Miami skipper picked up the issue during a 2-2 stalemate against Barcelona de Guayaquil in Ecuador the previous Saturday.

Messi had additional assessments to gauge the severity of the strain.

"Sadly, I experienced some muscular discomfort during the recent game," Messi commented in a club release.

The timeline for Messis comeback remains unclear, with the team noting that his step by step resumption of training "will hinge on his medical and performance development over the next few days."

The title holding Herons kick off their 2026 MLS season against Los Angeles FC on 21 February.

Inter Miami had been scheduled to take on Ecuadorian outfit Independiente del Valle on Friday in Puerto Rico, but the club revealed the fixture shift to 26 February, just three days prior to their away clash with MLS opponents Orlando.

"We were eager to meet you all," Messi addressed supporters in Puerto Rico via the release. "Therefore, alongside the club, we sought out a new date to enable our trip and game there.

"We appreciate the enthusiasm and eagerness you share for an Inter Miami encounter, and it will prove truly memorable to deliver it shortly."