Inter Miami’s 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union on Sunday night should have been a straightforward celebration of a wild, high-scoring victory that lifted the Herons to 31 points and kept them near the top of the Eastern Conference. Instead, the mood around the club was clouded by growing unease over Lionel Messi’s fitness, as concerns mount about his availability for the next World Cup. The Argentine superstar, whose every minute is scrutinized with an eye toward international duty, showed visible signs of discomfort during the match, prompting alarm among fans and pundits alike.
While Miami’s attacking display was exhilarating—featuring contributions from several key players beyond Messi—the focus quickly shifted to whether the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was pushing too hard too soon in the MLS campaign. Observers noted that Messi did not appear to be moving with his usual explosiveness, and he was substituted earlier than expected in the second half. The decision raised questions about whether a minor knock or accumulating fatigue is beginning to affect a player who remains central to Argentina’