Messi substituted off exhausted in Inter Miami win, coach downplays injury worry

The heavy downpour throughout the evening made the playing surface treacherous, and Messi had already put in a full shift before his number went up. His early exit sparked immediate concern among the crowd and on social media.

Suárez Steps Up

This season, Messi has been in superb form. In 14 MLS appearances he has tallied 12 goals and eight assists, leading the league in scoring contributions. His influence has transformed Inter Miami into title contenders.

Despite the substitution scare, teammate Luis Suárez stole the headlines on the pitch. The 39-year-old Uruguayan struck a hat-trick, reminding everyone of his enduring quality even as he prepares to miss this year's World Cup after retiring from international duty.

The result keeps Inter Miami firmly in the Eastern Conference race. With 31 points, they sit second, just two points behind Nashville SC, and hold a game in hand. Every point matters as the regular season passes its midpoint.

Countdown to the World Cup

Messi's health is of national importance for Argentina. The world champions, whom he captained to glory in Qatar four years ago, will open their title defence on 17 June in Kansas City against Algeria.

The Albiceleste are due to fly to the United States days later, and manager Lionel Scaloni is expected to name his final 26-man squad shortly before the 1 June deadline.

Miami's medical staff are likely to monitor Messi in the coming days, though the club downplayed any structural concern. The player himself was seen leaving the stadium without assistance.

For now, the message from the club is calm: the substitution was precautionary. As the MLS season grinds on and the World Cup looms, managing Messi's minutes will be a delicate balancing act.