Lionel Messi will miss Inter Miami’s next two Major League Soccer matches after injuring his right ankle in Argentina’s Copa America final triumph, Miami coach Gerardo Martino said Tuesday.
The 37-year-old Argentine star went down off the ball in the 64th minute and left the field to a standing ovation from fans at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida.
The eight-times Ballon d’Or winner was then seen sobbing on the sidelines, with an ice pack on his ankle.
Messi appeared to hurt his ankle in the 36th minute after a collision with Santiago Arias and while he got back to his feet after receiving treatment he was clearly hampered for the remainder of the half.
Messi is set to miss Inter Miami home matches on Wednesday against Toronto FC and on Saturday against the Chicago Fire.
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“There will be further testing to determine the severity of the situation,” Martino said. “He has to have more tests and wait for the results.”
The team said Tuesday that Messi suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle, and his availability will be assessed periodically as rehab progresses.
Messi, in an Instagram posting, was thankful for messages of concern and support he received after Sunday’s match.
“I want is to thank everyone for the messages and greetings. I’m fine, thank God, and I hope I can soon be on the field again enjoying what I like to do most,” Messi wrote.
With 14 wins and five draws from 23 matches, Inter Miami ranks second in MLS and the Eastern Conference on 47 points, one behind Cincinnati, which routed Miami 6-1 on July 6.
Inter Miami is set to begin defending the Leagues Cup title against MLS and Mexican league rivals next week.
(With inputs from Agencies)
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