This Photo Does Not Show Messi's Swollen Ankle

Misbar has investigated the claim and found it to be misleading.

After conducting a thorough reverse image search, Misbar found the viral photo to be outdated and unrelated to Messi’s ankle.

Diego Maradona’s Swollen Ankle in 1990

This photo, taken at the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy, depicts an ankle injury suffered by former Argentine footballer Diego Maradona during Argentina's match against Romania.

Lionel Messi’s Swollen Ankle at the 2022 FIFA World Cup

Messi was spotted during Argentina's training session with what seemed to be a swollen ankle.

Images of Messi's swollen right ankle raised doubts about his condition among the star's fans.

Many social media users were concerned about the player's possible absence from Argentina's first World Cup match against Saudi Arabia.

His ankle swelling is reportedly the result of a bandage containing frozen gel as part of a cryotherapy treatment to avoid the use of anti-inflammatory drugs.

In a press conference prior to the match, Messi said: "I feel very good physically. I think I'm arriving at a great moment, both personally and physically. I don't have any problems."

Argentina’s Opening Match vs. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia prevailed over Argentina by a score of 2-1 during the 2022 World Cup.

Over its previous four games, Argentina did not lose to Saudi Arabia.

Argentina's 36-game winning streak came to an end with the loss to the Green Falcons. 

Argentina had not lost a football match since Brazil eliminated them from the Copa América in July 2019.

Saudi Arabia leads Group C after Mexico and Poland draw 0-0 in their first match.

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