Lionel Messi to miss two Inter Miami matches after getting injured in Copa America final

Argentina legend and Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi will miss two matches in the ongoing Major League Soccer (MLS) season after getting injured in the 64th minute of the Copa America final.

Playing for Argentina against Colombia during the 1-0 win on Sunday (July 14), Messi was subbed off after he injured his right ankle. The injury appeared to have taken its toll on the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner who was seen in tears after being taken off


Lionel Messi to miss two matches


There will be further testing to determine the severity of the situation," Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino said.

"He has to have more tests and wait for the results," he further said.

Messi, in an Instagram post, was thankful for the messages of concern and support he received after Sunday's match.

"I want is to thank everyone for the messages and greetings. I'm fine, thank God, and I hope I can soon be on the field again enjoying what I like to do most," Messi wrote.

As a result of the injury, the 37-year-old will miss Inter Miami home matches on Wednesday against Toronto FC and on Saturday against the Chicago Fire.


Lionel Messi's last Copa America appearance?


After the injury Messi was seen in tears, showing his love for the game and the national side where he has now won three consecutive major tournaments including back-to-back Copa America and a FIFA World Cup. Sunday's final at the Hard Rock Stadium is also considered Messi's last dance at the Copa America as he is unlikely to play in the 2027 edition. It is assumed he will announce his retirement from the game after the 2026 FIFA World Cup which again takes place in the United States where Messi has stayed for the last few months.


On the football side, he could complete a unique Grand Slam of titles as Argentina will be the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the Finalissima in 2025. If they do manage to win these tournaments, Argentina will have won every international tournament they have participated in since 2021.