Lionel Messi Could Miss Inter Miami Us Open Cup Final With Injury

Lionel Messi was forced off after 37 minutes on his return to action for Inter Miami – but his team-mates sealed a 4-0 win over Toronto FC.

The Argentine, absent for Miami’s 5-2 defeat by Atlanta on Saturday due to fatigue, could miss next week’s US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo.

Manager Gerardo Martino said the 36-year-old is carrying an “old injury”.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was not used by Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni against Bolivia last week.

Messi’s former Barcelona team-mate Jordi Alba also suffered an injury against Toronto and Martino said both players would definitely miss Sunday’s game against Orlando City.

“There is no chance they will be there on Sunday,” said Martino.

“I know we have a final to play [on Wednesday] but they won’t go near the pitch if they can’t play.”