Major League Soccer has issued a one-game suspension to Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for not participating in the All-Star game, where the MLS All-Stars secured a 3-1 victory over the Liga MX All-Stars in Austin. The league stipulates that selected and healthy players must participate in the All-Star game unless granted prior approval to sit out. Inter Miami announced on match day that both Messi and Alba would be absent.
MLS published a statement regarding the decision:
“Inter Miami CF’s Jordi Alba and Lionel Messi will be unavailable for the club’s match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 26, due to their absence at this week’s Major League Soccer All-Star Game. Per league rules, any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without prior approval from the league is ineligible to compete in their club’s next match.”
This isn’t the first time high-profile stars have faced such penalties; Zlatan Ibrahimovic was similarly suspended by the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2018 after skipping the All-Star game. This comes at a crucial juncture for Inter Miami, which is set to play FC Cincinnati again following a 3-0 loss prior to the break.
Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, mentioned that while Alba had a slight injury, Messi was fit but dealing with load management issues during the media briefing on Friday.
What did Javier Mascherano say?
Prior to the suspension, Mascherano anticipated having Messi available, stating, “He presented fatigue that’s normal with the games and minutes we have played.” With Miami engaged in multiple tournaments including the Club World Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, and Leagues Cup, they have one of the busiest schedules in MLS this year.
“It’s case by case and we have our arguments [for why he shouldn’t be suspended], which are objective and for everyone to see. We’re the MLS team that’s played the most this year—by far,” Mascherano acknowledged.
Overview of the All-Star Game Incident
Messi did not play in last season’s All-Star game due to injury. However, league policy indicates that any player who misses the event without a confirmed injury or prior approval may receive a one-match suspension. MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized as well the demanding schedule faced by Messi:
“He’s played nine matches in 30 days. Miami’s had a schedule that is unlike any other team… We have to manage through that as a league… We would have loved to have Leo here.”
Garber also acknowledged that the rules should be enforced while suggesting a review of the policy to adapt it in ways beneficial for both the league and players, ensuring that their concerns are considered for upcoming seasons.
