Messi suffers hamstring strain, doubtful for Inter Miami’s MLS opener

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has suffered a strained left hamstring, casting doubt over his availability for the club’s Major League Soccer season opener against Los Angeles FC on Feb. 21.

The club confirmed the injury on Wednesday.

Messi, the league’s back-to-back Most Valuable Player, scored in a preseason match in Ecuador last weekend but was substituted about 12 minutes into the second half, reportedly due to discomfort in his hamstring.

“His gradual return to training will depend on his clinical and functional progress in the coming days,” Inter Miami said in a statement.

The injury also affects Inter Miami’s preseason schedule. What was originally planned as the team’s preseason finale will now take place about a week after their MLS opener. The reigning MLS Cup champions are set to face Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle in Bayamon, Puerto Rico on Feb. 26. An open practice session is also scheduled as part of that trip.

Messi’s fitness will be closely monitored in the coming days as Inter Miami prepares to begin its title defense.