Lionel Messi jokes with Argentina teammates by faking an injury

Lionel Messi nearly shocked the whole football world with an ill-timed injury, however, he was just faking an injury as a joke with his teammates.

In Paris Saint Germain’s last match before the World Cup, there were concerns over Messi’s fitness as many fans feared the Argentina legend could pick up an unexpected injury a week before the tournament in Qatar.

However, to the delight of many around the world, the likes of Messi, along with Brazil star Neymar were taken off by PSG manager Christophe Galtier after 75 minutes.

On Monday afternoon, Messi was part of Argentina’s public training session after he joined up with his international teammates.

The training was filmed and it captured Messi grabbing the back of his leg, however, it was just a joke as he faked an injury to have a laugh with teammate Rodrigo De Paul. You can watch the footage below.

Many fans reacted to Messi's joke on social media.

One said: "I was almost having a heart attack. That's not ok, don't joke like that."

Another tweeted: "Don’t joke with me Leo."

A third fan added: "These guys are joking with our hearts."

Messi and his Argentina side are currently in Abu Dhabi as they gear up for a pre-tournament friendly against the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium.

After that, they will focus on their World Cup opener in Qatar, which will take place on 22 November when they take on Saudi Arabia.

Argentina will then be up against Mexico and Poland as they bid to qualify for the round of 16.

Many people have picked Argentina as the favourites to win the World Cup, partly due to the fact that Messi has been in fine form for PSG this season. Argentina have also tasted recent success on the international stage, after winning the last edition of Copa America.

Can Messi lead Argentina to World Cup glory? Only time will tell.