Daily Mail reported that Lionel Messi will miss Inter Miami indefinitely due to a serious ligament injury in his right ankle.
Messi sustained the injury during Argentina's Copa America final against Colombia, necessitating ongoing evaluations for his recovery.
The incident leading to Messi's injury occurred on Sunday during the 64th minute of Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in Miami. As Messi was forced to leave the field, cameras captured him on the bench with ice applied to his swollen right ankle.
After the match, the Argentinean Football Association (AFA) issued a statement confirming the ligament injury. "After a medical evaluation, it has been determined that Leo Messi has suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle," the AFA revealed.
Inter Miami coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino provided further details about Messi's condition: "He twisted his ankle, and the injury is present so tests are needed and wait for results." The exact timeline for Messi's return remains uncertain, pending periodic assessments of his recovery progress.
Messi’s injury has significant implications for Inter Miami, currently positioned second in the Eastern Conference standings. The team faces crucial home matches against Toronto FC on Wednesday and the Chicago Fire on Saturday, both of which will proceed without their star player.
Messi's contribution to Inter Miami has been substantial, with 12 goals and 13 assists recorded in 12 MLS matches this season. His absence is expected to be keenly felt by the team and its supporters.
Coach Martino expressed cautious optimism about Messi’s recovery, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluations:
There will be tests done to determine the severity of the situation. We are always informed through our kinesiologist Walter Insaurralde, who is also the kinesiologist of the national team. He is very cautious at giving a final diagnosis before results are in.
The Argentinean FA's statement also highlighted the uncertain nature of Messi's recovery timeline: "The captain's availability will be determined by periodic assessments and the progress of his recovery."
Despite the setback, Messi remains optimistic about his recovery. On Monday, he posted on Instagram, assuring fans of his well-being. "I'm fine, thank God, and I hope I can soon be on the field again enjoying what I like to do most," Messi wrote.
Messi’s injury impacts Inter Miami's current season and raises questions about his long-term fitness and future contributions. His recovery process will be crucial in determining how quickly he can return to peak performance levels.
The club’s immediate challenge will be to fill the void left by Messi's absence, potentially adjusting their tactical approach to cope with his unavailability. Meanwhile, Messi’s recovery will be a closely watched aspect of the team's ongoing season.
As Messi undergoes treatment and rehabilitation, the soccer world will be watching closely, hoping for a swift and successful recovery for one of the sport's greatest talents.
