Messi Exits Inter Miami Win in 73rd Minute as World Cup Opener Looms in 3 Weeks

13 articles · Updated · MLSsoccer.com · May 25

Lionel Messi came off in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami's 6-4 win over Philadelphia, with interim coach Guillermo Hoyos saying the move was due to muscular fatigue and made to avoid risks.
Hoyos said he had no formal postgame medical update but urged against fears of a serious injury after Messi signaled to the bench and went straight down the tunnel at Nu Stadium.
June 16 is Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria, leaving just over three weeks for fans to monitor whether Messi will lead the defending champions at what would be his record sixth tournament.
20 goal contributions in 14 MLS matches underline the stakes for both club and country: Messi has 12 goals and 8 assists this season and is expected to captain Argentina despite not formally confirming his participation.

Is Messi's injury scare a minor precaution or a major threat to Argentina's World Cup campaign?

How did a 20-year friendship influence the decision to substitute Messi just weeks before the World Cup?