Lionel Messi out indefinitely with ankle ligament injury

Lionel Messi has been ruled out indefinitely with an ankle ligament injury, which he suffered in the Copa America final against Colombia, Inter Miami has announced. Messi twisted his ankle while trying to cross the ball in the second half of the game.

The talisman was seen in a lot of pain and was substituted by Lionel Scaloni, in what could be Messi’s swansong in a major event for Argentina. However, despite Messi’s injury, La Albiceleste went on to defend their Copa America title as Lautaro Martinez scored late in the extra time.

“After a medical evaluation, it has been determined that Leo Messi has suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle,” the club said in a statement. “The captain’s availability will be determined by periodic assessments and the progress of his recovery.”

Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino said on Tuesday that Messi is likely to be ruled out of the next two games for the club.

“He twisted his ankle, and the injury is present, so tests are needed and wait for results,” Martino said. “I’ve had the opportunity to see other images. There will be tests done to determine the severity of the situation. We are always informed through our kinesiologist Walter Insaurralde, who is also the kinesiologist of the national team. He is very cautious at giving a final diagnosis before results are in.”

Messi was seen in tears when he could not continue and asked for a substitution in the 64th minute. 

Messi said he was doing well in an Instagram post on Monday and that he hoped to return soon. The talisman had earlier said he has no plans to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Miami is second in the Eastern Conference standings.