Barcelona forward Lionel Messi says he hopes to be "back soon" from the calf injury he sustained on Monday, but the Argentine is now doubtful for his side's La Liga opener away to Athletic Club on August 17th.
Messi returned to training on Monday following his participation in the Copa America earlier this summer, having made a speech ahead of Sunday's 2-1 win against Arsenal at Camp Nou, but the 32-year-old withdrew from the session and Barca revealed he had picked up a "Grade 1 calf strain" in his right leg.
That saw the Argentine ruled out of Barca's trip to the United States on Monday for friendlies against Napoli in Miami and Michigan. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has remained in the Catalan capital and will undergo treatment while his team-mates are away.
"I was keen to get started and unfortunately I had a setback in my first training session that is going to leave me out for a little while," Messi wrote on Instagram. "I thank you for all your messages and your affection.
"I wanted to be with the team and the people who are following us in the USA. This time it cannot be, but we'll see each other again soon. A hug to everyone."
Barca are expected to earn around €5 million from the two games against Napoli and according to Mundo Deportivo Messi was obliged – under the terms of the agreement for the fixtures – to play at least some part in both.
More worrying than that for Barca is the fact that their captain is now surely a doubt for their La Liga opener against Athletic Club at San Mames on August 17th, with the Argentine set to be out for between one and two weeks with this problem.
Even if he is back within a week, the 32-year-old will have little time to build up his fitness following an extended summer break.
Barcelona are at home to Betis in their second round of matches a week later.
