After a medical examination, doctors determined that Messi had a right ankle ligament injury. His ability to play will be based on periodic assessments and recovery level,” Inter Miami Club announced.

Messi will not have to have surgery. Head coach Tata Martino said their captain will definitely not play in this week’s two matches against Toronto and Chicago Fire. Previously, Messi shared on his personal page about his injury and his desire to return to the field soon.

“I’m fine, thank you for this luck. I hope to return to play soon, enjoying what I like to do most,” Messi wrote.

Messi collides with Colombian player.© Provided by VTC News

Messi was injured in the 2024 Copa America final. In the first half, this player collided strongly with a Colombian player, leading to a rolled ankle. Messi was in pain but still tried to play. In the 66th minute, the 37-year-old star collapsed on the field and had to ask for a substitution.

The captured images show Messi’s swollen cheeks and legs. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni shared: “Leo is the greatest player in history. He never wanted to leave the field. His ankle was swollen but he was determined to continue playing. I want other players to look at that and see I know he is over 30 years old but he still wants to contribute, not because of selfishness.

 

Leo wanted to continue playing because he didn’t want to abandon his teammates. He didn’t want to do that even though he was in a very bad condition. By the time he left the field, Leo didn’t feel good enough anymore.”

At Copa America 2024, Messi scored 1 goal and made 1 assist. This player’s mark is no longer as bold as in previous tournaments. He once mentioned retiring from his international career. However, Messi has not set a time to leave the team.

Since debuting for the Argentina team in 2005, Lionel Messi has appeared in 187 matches, scored 109 goals, and assisted 58 times. He ranked second in the list of best goalscorers for the national team, after Ronaldo (130 goals). The striker born in 1987 has won the most titles in history with 45 trophies, more than the next person, Dani Alves (43 titles).