Inter Miami CF captain and global icon Lionel Messi was forced off in the first minutes of the Leagues Cup match against Necaxa with a right leg muscle injury, according to Marca.

The club has since classified it as "minor", though his exact return timeline remains uncertain.

On August 2, 2025, during the Leagues Cup fixture at Chase Stadium, Messi suffered a pull in his right hamstring area while dribbling into the penalty box. He left the pitch just before the 11th minute, replaced by Federico Redondo, after visibly showing frustration. Despite the setback, Inter Miami managed a 2-2 draw and ultimately won the match in a 5-4 penalty shootout, securing crucial progression points in the group stage.

On August 3, Inter Miami officially confirmed what fans hoped to hear: Messi's injury is a minor muscle issue in the right leg. His medical clearance will depend on his recovery progress and treatment response. Head coach Javier Mascherano emphasized that although Messi "felt a pull", he was not in acute pain. The severity will become clearer as he undergoes further evaluation in the days ahead.

Inter Miami's next opponents are Pumas UNAM on August 6 (Leagues Cup league stage), followed by an MLS return match versus Orlando City on August 10. Whether Messi plays either match will hinge on his healing.

Despite Messi's early exit, substitutes like Luis Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul, Jordi Alba, Telasco Segovia, Fafá Picault, and Benjamin Cremaschi stepped up to maintain momentum. Until now, Messi has been central to Miami's success, tied as the MLS top scorer (18 goals), plus key assists in cup play.