Messi’s injury reshuffles the schedule: a heartfelt update from Inter Miami and a postponed Puerto Rico friendly

Injury delays Inter Miami's Puerto Rico friendly

Messi apologized to fans in Puerto Rico after missing a planned friendly because of a muscle injury. He suffered a strain in his left hamstring during Inter Miami's most recent warm‑up against Barcelona SC (Ecuador) and left the pitch in the 58th minute.

Inter Miami confirmed that Messi did not train on Wednesday, and his return will depend on how his medical status evolves. Consequently, the club postponed the match with Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico to February 26.

Messi's message to fans and the MLS timetable

In a video message, Messi addressed the Puerto Rican public, saying: "I wanted to send a greeting to the people of Puerto Rico, and to everyone who would have attended the training and the match." He explained that the discomfort in the Ecuador match forced him to exit early and that, with the organizers and the club, the game was postponed. He hopes the game can be rescheduled and that they can meet soon.

The Argentine added thanks to supporters for their love and patience, noting that tickets were already sold and everything was ready. He asked that the match be played as planned when possible.

The postponement comes at a critical moment as Inter Miami prepares for the MLS season opener on February 21 against Los Angeles FC, requiring the medical staff to proceed with caution around their captain's injury.

Punchline 1: If injuries were goals, Messi’s hamstring would be leading the league—with a dramatic red card issued to gravity itself.

Punchline 2: Don’t worry, fans: every delay is just a trailer for the grand comeback—Messi always delivers the encore when you least expect it.