Which matches will Lionel Messi likely miss after his injury with Inter Miami?

Lionel Messi underwent medical tests after picking up a knock in Inter Miami’s 2–2 draw against Necaxa on Saturday (which the MLS side won on penalties). The extent of the injury was revealed 24 hours later.

On Sunday, Inter Miami confirmed that their captain sustained a minor muscle injury in his right leg and will be monitored with clinical follow-ups as he recovers. The club released an official statement detailing the diagnosis.

Based on the medical evaluation and the team’s packed schedule across MLS and Leagues Cup, Messi is expected to be sidelined for approximately two to three weeks, depending on his progress.

Matches he will miss

During that span, Inter Miami will play the following matches:

• Wednesday, August 6 vs. Pumas UNAM | Leagues Cup
• Sunday, August 10 vs. Orlando City (Florida Derby) | MLS
• Saturday, August 16 vs. LA Galaxy | MLS

If Inter Miami qualifies for the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, Messi would also likely miss that match, scheduled for either Tuesday, August 19 or Wednesday, August 20.

If the team advances even further, the schedule continues as follows:

• Leagues Cup Semifinals: Tuesday, August 26 & Wednesday, August 27
• Final / Third Place Match: Sunday, August 31

Messi’s numbers this season with Inter Miami

Since the start of the 2025 regular season and including international competitions, Messi has played 31 matches, recording 24 goals and 10 assists. His absence will be a major test for Mascherano’s side as they look to maintain momentum in both the Leagues Cup and MLS standings.