Lionel Messi and Jordi AlbaInter Miami stars, did not participate in the Mls All-Star Game 2024despite having been voted by fans to be part of the team. His absence has generated debate between fans, media and managers of the League, since according to the regulation of the MLS, not to appear at the event without an approved medical reason can lead to a sanction.
Major League Soccer officially confirmed that neither Messi or Alba were included in the final template that faced the combined MX League. The League has not yet made a decision about a possible suspension, but according to reports from ESPNa dialogue with Inter Miami will open before determining if both players will be available to the Saturday match against FC Cincinnati.
Don Garber: “We wanted Messi in the All-Star”
The MLS commissioner, Don Garberoffered prior statements to the star match and defended the Florida team:
“Miami has had a unique calendar. Most of our teams had a 10 -day break, but Miami. Leo has played 90 minutes in almost all games. They are nine games in 35 days,” Garber explained.
“We would have loved to have Leo here, we want all selected to be present.”
Messi, in MVP mode
Despite his absence in the All-Star Game due to an ankle injury, Messi is going through a spectacular moment In the 2025 season of the MLS:
- 8 goals and 2 assists in their last 5 games.
- Inter Miami won 4 of those 5 games, recovering land in the East Conferencewhere he currently occupies the fifth place.
- Messi shares the goal leadership with Sam Surridge (Nashville SC) With 18 goals each.
Mascherano: “I prefer to rest”
Inter Miami coach, Javier Mascheranorecognized days before his desire was that both Messi and Alba would rest due to the calendar loaded. However, he made it clear that it was not he who made the final decision.
“I know how important the All-Star Game is, but as far as I know, there is no official decision of the club. Everything follows its normal course.”
Will they play on Saturday?
The unknown on whether Messi and Alba will be sanctioned or will be enabled to play before FC Cincinnati Still open. What is certain is that, with or without punishment, the debate on the care of the stars and the weight of the extra -sports commitments in full regular season is again on the table.
