Messi receives bad news from former Man United star at Inter Miami

Inter Miami received disappointing news early in the preseason when newcomer Sergio Reguilón sustained a severe knee injury, casting uncertainty over his participation in the 2026 MLS season opener.

Inter Miami faced an early setback in the preseason after the club confirmed that Spanish left-back Sergio Reguilón suffered a serious knee injury during a friendly match against Alianza Lima. Although surgery was avoided, his chances of playing in the 2026 MLS opener remain uncertain as his recovery progress continues to be closely monitored.

Inter Miami's preparations for the new season were disrupted when one of their most notable winter signings during the transfer window experienced health issues. According to the club’s statement, Reguilón sustained a grade 2 sprain in his right knee after medical examinations conducted immediately following the friendly against Alianza Lima. The Spanish defender partially tore a ligament. Although surgery was not required, the coaching staff confirmed they could not specify a return date for the former Manchester United player, as his recovery will be assessed on a weekly basis.

With a grade 2 knee sprain, players typically miss several weeks, with recovery times ranging from 2 to 6 weeks depending on progress. Initial treatment focuses on reducing swelling and stabilizing the joint, followed by rehabilitation and gradual return to high-intensity training.

Inter Miami also experienced a rough start to 2026, suffering a 0-3 defeat to Alianza Lima in a friendly held during the Noche Blanquiazul event in Peru. Veteran striker Paolo Guerrero shone with a first-half brace, while Lionel Messi and his teammates struggled to create clear chances, resulting in a disappointing performance and an early warning sign for the MLS representatives.

The big question for Inter Miami now is whether Reguilón will recover in time to feature in the 2026 MLS season opener, where the defending champions are set to face LAFC on February 21. Avoiding a more severe injury like an ACL tear is seen as a positive sign internally, but the Spanish defender’s condition remains uncertain for the early matches of the season.