Messi ends 2023 with muscular issue after World Cup qualifier

Lionel Messi ended his final match of the calendar year with a groin injury that forced him to be substituted in Argentina's 1-0 win over Brazil on November 22 at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro, Report informs referring to ESPN.

The Argentina captain, who was replaced in the 78th minute, said he felt pain in his groin after the match, which was marred by clashes between fans and police.

"I felt discomfort in my adductor," Messi said. "It was my last game of the year, so I have time to get well to start 2024 giving everything."

The Inter Miami forward received treatment on the touchline in the first half and looked short of fitness.

Messi said the 27-minute delay to the start of the game caused by the violent clashes contributed to his injury.

"It didn't help me to cool down and go inside the locker room and then come back," he said.