Inter Miami's Messi Out Indefinitely with Minor Muscle Injury

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi suffered a minor muscle injury in his right leg during the early minutes of a Leagues Cup match against Necaxa, forcing him to leave the game prematurely. Medical tests confirmed the injury, but the timeline for his return remains undetermined and will depend on his clinical progress and response to treatment. Despite the setback, Inter Miami managed to draw 2-2 in regular time and won 5-4 on penalties, with Jordi Alba scoring a crucial equalizer. Messi, who leads the MLS season with 18 goals and nine assists, left the field in the 11th minute but was able to walk off on his own. The injury is seen as a significant blow to Miami's campaign, especially as they aim to secure a quarterfinal berth in the Leagues Cup. Head coach Javier Mascherano suggested the injury might not be severe, emphasizing Messi's lack of pain but some discomfort.