Messi Suspended for Missing MLS All-Star Game

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been suspended for one MLS match after failing to appear at the 2025 MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas.

The Inter Miami stars did not feature in Wednesday’s All-Star clash, where Major League Soccer’s best defeated Liga MX’s finest 3-1. As a result of league rules, both players will now miss Inter Miami’s next league match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday.

“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,” MLS confirmed in a statement.

League Rule Enforcement Sparks Controversy

MLS Commissioner Don Garber admitted that suspending Messi was a “very difficult decision,” given the Argentine’s monumental impact on the league.

“I know Lionel Messi loves this league,” said Garber.

“I don’t think there’s a player — or anyone — who has done more for MLS than Messi. But we have a long-standing policy and had to enforce it.”

Inter Miami to Miss Key Duo vs Cincinnati

Messi, 38, has been in incredible form this season, netting 18 goals in 18 MLS appearances, while Alba, 36, has made 19 league outings from left-back. The duo were key figures in Inter Miami’s run to the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals, eventually losing to Paris St-Germain.

Since that tournament, Messi has scored eight goals in five matches in July, underlining his continued importance to head coach Javier Mascherano’s side.

Mascherano earlier addressed Messi’s absence, citing fatigue from the intense summer schedule:

“He showed normal fatigue from the number of games and minutes he’s been playing. Players always have discomfort, especially when they play every three days.”

Rule vs Reputation: MLS Stands Firm

Despite Messi’s iconic status and contribution to global viewership for Major League Soccer, the league’s disciplinary policy took precedence.

Jordi Alba, also suspended, has been a consistent starter for Inter Miami and was a teammate of Messi at FC Barcelona between 2012 and 2021.

Inter Miami will need to adjust quickly, as the team aims to maintain their top position in the Eastern Conference. The suspension places increased pressure on the rest of the squad to deliver without their two veterans.