Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba of Inter Miami CF have been suspended by Major League Soccer (MLS) for missing the 2025 All-Star Game without official clearance.
Messi, Alba Ineligible for Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati Clash
In an official statement on Friday, MLS confirmed that both Messi and Alba would not be allowed to participate in Inter Miami’s upcoming fixture against FC Cincinnati. The suspension comes after the duo failed to show up for the All-Star Game earlier this week.
- “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,” the statement read.
Why Messi and Alba Missed the MLS All-Star Game
The pair had been selected to represent the MLS All-Star team in a high-profile exhibition match against Mexico’s Liga MX stars. However, both withdrew hours before kickoff for unspecified reasons.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber addressed the situation, saying the league had no option but to enforce the rule, even though it was a “very difficult decision.”
“I know Lionel Messi loves this league… I admire his commitment to Inter Miami, but rules are rules,” Garber said.
Garber Hints at Future Review of Suspension Policy
While the league maintained its strict policy for now, Garber hinted that a review is likely.
“We’re going to take a hard look at the policy moving forward. I’m committed to working with our players to determine how the rule should evolve.”
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Messi’s Grueling Schedule a Possible Factor
Messi has played nine matches in just 35 days, including four appearances at the FIFA Club World Cup. Most MLS clubs had a 10-day break, but Inter Miami did not, raising concerns about player fatigue.
Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, had previously voiced his preference for the stars to be rested.
- “The players are called up. I’d prefer they rest, but it’s not my decision,” Mascherano said.
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