Lionel Messi skipped training with Inter Miami following a left hamstring muscle strain picked up during the recent friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador.
The club released the official medical update and revealed the postponement of their preseason friendly versus Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico.
The team captain later spoke directly to supporters, expressing regret over the schedule adjustment.
Inter Miami stated that the preseason friendly scheduled in Puerto Rico has been moved to Thursday, February 26, having originally been planned for Friday, February 13. This shift follows the latest medical assessment on Messi.
In an official release from the club in collaboration with Baptist Health, it was noted that Messi took no part in Wednesday, February 11 training sessions because of the muscle strain affecting his left hamstring.
The issue arose in Inter Miami’s previous encounter with Barcelona SC in Ecuador and has continued to affect him. Further examinations verified the diagnosis, with his full return to training hinging on his ongoing clinical and functional improvement over the next few days.
Messi subsequently shared a personal message with fans via a video posted on his Instagram stories, offering an apology to those in Puerto Rico.
“Hi everyone, I’d like to send my greetings to the people of Puerto Rico — those planning to come to the training and the game,” Messi said. “In the previous match in Ecuador, I ended the game feeling some discomfort and had to be substituted early. Due to that, along with the organizers and the club, we chose to postpone this match. I hope we can rearrange it soon so we can meet up and I can come visit you.”
He added words of gratitude for their patience.
“I really appreciate all your support and love,” he continued. “I understand that tickets were already purchased and plans were in place, so hopefully we can get it done before long. A big hug to all of you.”
