Inter Miami CF‘s scheduled preseason friendly against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico has been delayed by two weeks after Lionel Messi suffered a muscle strain in his left hamstring during a recent game against Barcelona SC on February 7. The match, originally set for February 13, will now take place on February 26 at Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel in Bayamón.
Messi began the game against Barcelona SC but left the field in the 58th minute because of the injury and watched the remainder of the match from the sidelines. This injury raises uncertainty about his participation in Inter Miami‘s MLS season opener against LAFC at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on February 21.
Details on Messi’s Injury and Recovery Progress
The club confirmed on February 11 that Messi did not participate in training due to the persistent muscle strain he sustained during the match in Ecuador. After undergoing further medical examinations, the diagnosis of a left hamstring strain was confirmed.
The player underwent additional medical tests that confirmed the diagnosis. His gradual return to training will depend on his clinical and functional progress in the coming days.
Inter Miami, along with the event promoter and the government of Puerto Rico, decided that postponing the friendly would provide a better experience for fans attending the match.
The Club, in collaboration with the event promoter and the government of Puerto Rico, believe shifting the match will allow for the best experience for fans in Puerto Rico. The match will remain at 7 p.m. ET (8 p.m. Local) at Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel in Bayamón, Puerto Rico and the opponent also remains Independiente del Valle.
Messi Addresses Fans Regarding the Postponed Match
Messi posted a message on social media acknowledging the postponement and explaining the reason behind it.
Hi everyone, I wanted to send this message to the people of Puerto Rico and all the people that will be going to the training session and game,
said Messi in a video.
To be honest, during the last game in Ecuador I concluded with a muscle strain, which is why I left the field early. So, together with the people of the organization and Inter Miami it was decided to suspend this game. We hope it can be reprogrammed, and we can see each other. Visit you soon. Sending a hug to you all and thank you for all the love that you always give. I hope we can do it in the future, all the best.
The rescheduled friendly will now occur after the start of the 2026 MLS season, allowing more time for Messi’s recovery.
Previous Injury Impact on Inter Miami and Fan Reactions
Messi’s recent injury is not the first time his health has affected Inter Miami’s preseason. In 2024, an injury kept him from participating in a friendly match in Hong Kong, which led to dissatisfaction among local fans. The event promoter offered partial refunds following negative feedback from supporters.
At that time, Miami issued a statement emphasizing the importance of player health.
We recognize that the late decision caused frustration among our Hong Kong supporters and the event promoter, Tatler Asia. We do feel it necessary to express that injuries are unfortunately a part of the beautiful game, and our player’s health must always come first.
Implications for Inter Miami’s Season and Fan Experience
Lionel Messi’s muscle strain delays the Puerto Rico friendly and threatens his presence in Inter Miami’s MLS opener, adding uncertainty to the team’s preparations. The rescheduled match on February 26 will give Messi additional time to recover, potentially impacting the club’s preseason momentum and fan engagement opportunities in Puerto Rico.
With Messi’s recovery closely monitored, the club’s medical staff will determine his readiness for upcoming fixtures based on his clinical improvements. Fans and analysts alike will watch to see how this injury influences Inter Miami’s push to defend their MLS Cup title during the 2026 season.
