Messi and defender Jordi Alba were selected by coach Nico Estevez for the friendly against the Liga MX All-Stars on 24/7. However, the two Inter Miami players declined to play in the match without MLS approval.
According to MLS rules, players who refuse to join the All-Star team will be suspended for their next MLS match. Therefore, Messi and Alba will not be able to play against league leaders Cincinnati on Sunday 27/7. Messi and Alba didn't inform Estevez until eight hours before the match against the Liga MX All-Stars.
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Messi dribbles the ball in the second half against the New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated stadium, Harrison, New Jersey, USA, on 19/7/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Messi dribbles the ball in the second half against the New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated stadium, Harrison, New Jersey, USA, on 19/7/2025. Photo: Reuters
Inter Miami stated that Messi did not play with the All-Stars due to an excessive workload. Since 2/4, he has played 22 of a maximum of 23 games, including four in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. In recent matches, the Argentinian superstar has shown signs of fatigue and needs rest. The 38-year-old captain declined Estevez's call-up out of respect for Inter Miami.
MLS commissioner Don Garber said the disciplinary decision was complex. "I know Messi loves MLS," he said. "Frankly, no one has contributed more to MLS than Messi. But we have long-standing rules on this issue. Unfortunately, I had to make that decision. It wasn't easy."
Garber said what Messi has done for MLS is not just off the field, but on the field as well. "Every Messi game is a special event, not to be missed," he added. "He has played more than any other player this year. So, Miami wants him to rest and I respect that decision."
MLS representatives spoke with Inter Miami and Messi to explain the disciplinary decision. Garber said he would review the disciplinary process in this case to reflect the reality that players are playing more games than before.
In the aforementioned match, the MLS All-Stars won 3-1 without Messi or Alba. However, Miami's performance might be affected in the match against Cincinnati without these two veteran players.
Hoang An (USA Today)
