Lionel Messi Injury: May Not Miss Any Time

Lionel Messi is out of the hospital and the tests are looking good. As expected, the MRI did not find any further internal damage. It is just a nasty bruise.

His availability for Sunday's La Liga clash versus Betis depends on how he recovers. Cules around the world should feel relieved it is nothing too serious.

They had feared the worst when Messi was carried off the field after a collision with Benfica's Artur. But initial reports suggested it was just the bruise, nothing more.

Those reports now appear to be correct.

Barcelona may still be in a bind for the tricky trip to Seville if their star is not ready, but the Catalans should have enough firepower in any case to dispatch Real Betis.

Still Pending Tests, But Vilanova Confident Messi Will Be Back Soon

MRI tests usually take less than 24 hours, but until the results come back, no one will know for sure if there is serious damage from the injury Lionel Messi suffered in Barcelona's 0-0 match against Benfica.

But Tito Vilanova seems confident. "He won't be out for a long time," Tito told reporters in his post-match press conference.

Vilanova also defended his decision to play Messi in what was effectively a meaningless game, noting that a player can also be injured during training. "If he can't play against Betis on Sunday, so be it," the coach said.

The bruise on the front of the striker's left knee could sideline him for a match, but it appears his manager is not worried past that.

Messi was walking normally and appeared calm. As a precaution, he remains in the Hospital of Barcelona for now to have further tests.

Lionel Messi's Serious-Looking Injury: Probably Not That Serious

Football fans around the world feared the worst when Messi went down in Barcelona's 0-0 draw with Benfica in the Champions League. After some speculated the injury could be serious, initial reports suggest it is a relatively minor one. Tests are still pending.