Lionel Messi out: Inter Miami star out for two games

Lchicken Lionel Messi fell to the ground, the crowd's cry of surprise was audible even on television. The greatest footballer in the world, “The goat“down and down in the Copa America finale. It was a scene that left both Argentina And Inter Miami fans are holding their breath.

Inter Miami announced on Tuesday that Messi37 years old, will be out for at least the next two games with a ligament injury in his right ankle. The head coach Tata Martino confirmed Messi's absence from Wednesday's clash against Toronto FC and Sunday's confrontation with the Chicago Fireadding that Messi's availability will be assessed periodically depending on the evolution of his recovery.

“We are still determining the exact extent of the injury,” Martin he said, maintaining his caution. “Tests will be carried out and we will receive continuous updates from our kinesiologist, Walter Insaurralde, who also works with the national team.”

THE injury happened in the 64th minute of Argentina wins 1-0 against Colombiawhere Messi clumsily planted his foot and immediately collapsed to the groundThe sight of Messi, face buried in his hands, shoes thrown angrily to the side, was a stark contrast to the jubilation that usually surrounded him. The match had already been marked by a scare grabbed the ankle after a violent tackle from the Colombian Santiago Ariasbut this time the injury was undeniable.

Messi reassures fans despite injury concerns: 'I'm fine, thank God'

Monday, Messi took to Instagram to thank his fans for their support and to bring him a glimmer of hope.”I am well, thank God, and I hope to soon be back on the field and enjoying what I love to do most,” he wrote.

Despite the optimism, Messi missed celebratory trip to Buenos Aires with his Argentinian teammates. Inter Miami the immediate future now rests on their ability to navigate the future MLS matches without their star player. The team, which is also the defender League Cup champion, faces an important period with the All-Star Game and the League Cup on the horizon. Last year, Messi's presence boosted audience for the tournament, a critical measure for MLS and its broadcast partner, Apple.

Martinadopting a diplomatic position, refused to criticize Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni use of Messi during the Copa America. “We weren't there on a daily basis, and it would be inappropriate for me to talk about it.,” he said.

Inter Miami will resume their regular season on August 24and fans will be watching with bated breath Messi's recovery. The magic he brings to the field is unmatched, and his absence, however brief, leaves a palpable void in the football world. Until then, the mantra in Miami and beyond will be a message of hope: “Get well soon, Leo” . “