Lionel Messi is dealing with an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, Inter Miami confirmed Monday, less than three weeks before the World Cup kicks off.
The 38-year-old Argentine star was forced off in the 73rd minute of Sunday's 6-4 MLS win over the Philadelphia Union after clutching the back of his thigh following a free kick.
“The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress,” Inter Miami said in a statement.
Coach Guillermo Hoyos downplayed the injury after the match, suggesting Messi simply looked fatigued after playing on a heavy pitch.
Major League Soccer now goes on break for the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has included the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner in his provisional 55-man squad ahead of the defending champions’ opener against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City.