Injuries seem to have taken a toll on Lionel Messi this season. After a hard-fought win against DC United, Inter Miami is gearing up for a weekend clash against Vancouver. But fans might have to hold their breath as the presence of the Argentinian superstar might be in question yet again after he was seen training in discomfort.

A video shared by journalist Franco Panizo on X, as Messi was training alongside the group. However, an unsettling moment was caught on camera where La Pulga grimaced a few times as he looked to be feeling discomfort in his left leg during a small-sided game. One can see him quickly tend to the leg at the end of the drill. Messi was also not training with enough intensity and was playing light passes instead, while constantly looking at his leg. 

From the looks of the video, it is likely he may not have recovered from the fresh knock on his knee sustained earlier. This certainly ignites a huge crisis for Tata Martino and Co. The Florida side struggled in his absence in last week’s game against Orlando City, ending in a stalemate. Undoubtedly, they won’t be in the mood to travel to BC Place to face Vancouver without him. In fact, his presence is much needed for Miami in the coming matchdays to capitalize on their opportunities. 

The 36-year-old is bound to take a lengthy domestic leave due to the impending Copa America next month with Argentina. Coincidentally, this might be one of the reasons why Messi failed to get his name on the scoresheet in the previous fixture against DC United. Either way, it doesn’t look for the legendary skipper, especially for Miami, who are already grappling with another major injury blow. 

While Lionel Messi kindles concerns, Inter Miami loses its star defender for the whole season

Inter Miami recently provided a worrying update on Nicolas Freire’s condition. According to the club’s website, the Argentinian defender suffered a significant injury to his right Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) during Miami’s narrow victory over D.C. United on Saturday. The statement mentioned that Freire will need surgery and could be sidelined for the rest of the season. 

Being on loan from Pumas UNAM, this injury might prevent him from playing alongside Messi and the team. Freire joins a growing list of injured players, including Facundo Farias, Diego Gomez, Federico Redondo, Robbie Robinson, and Ian Fray. While it remains to be seen how Inter Miami navigates these challenges, the club’s primary focus remains on keeping Lionel Messi fit.