Lionel Messi injury update: Inter Miami confirms star will miss Leagues Cup match vs. Pumas on August 7 due to minor muscle issue. Quick recovery hoped for

Lionel Messi injury update headlines Inter Miami’s preparation for their critical Leagues Cup group stage finale against Pumas UNAM, as the superstar will sit out the August 7 match due to a minor muscle injury.

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Head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Tuesday that Messi suffered the setback during Miami’s recent win over Necaxa, with discomfort in his upper right leg. Although no timeline has been set for his return, Mascherano struck a hopeful tone.

“Within the bad news, it’s good news,” Mascherano said. “He usually recovers very well — and quickly.”

Messi, who leads MLS with 18 goals this season, played a pivotal role in Inter Miami’s 2023 Leagues Cup championship and remains central to the Herons’ hopes of advancing. A win over Pumas is likely needed for Miami to reach the quarter-finals.

If Miami advances, Messi could have two weeks to recover before the knockout round begins. Their next MLS match is Sunday against Orlando City.

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Fans will now wait anxiously for updates on the Argentinian icon’s recovery.