Messi and Alba Suspended for All-Star Game Absence

Fans cheering at a Major League Soccer match, showcasing the lively atmosphere.

News Summary

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba of Inter Miami have been suspended for one match due to their absence from the MLS All-Star Game. This suspension means both players will miss the upcoming match against FC Cincinnati. MLS Commissioner emphasized the importance of enforcing league policies, although the decision was difficult. The team’s coach mentioned player fatigue and injuries as reasons for their absence. This latest incident parallels a similar situation with Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2018, as the league navigates fairness and compliance with its rules.

Austin, Texas – Major League Soccer announced on Friday that Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba of Inter Miami have been suspended for one match due to their absence from the MLS All-Star Game. The All-Star Game was held in Austin on Wednesday night, and players who miss the event without prior medical approval face a one-game suspension under league rules.

As a result of this suspension, Messi and Alba will not participate in Inter Miami’s upcoming match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 26. The league confirmed their ineligibility to play in the next match due to their absence from the All-Star Game, which both players were voted into by fans and media.

MLS Commissioner stated that Messi’s contributions to the league have been unparalleled and highlighted his commitment to both MLS and Inter Miami. The decision to suspend Messi and Alba was confirmed to be “very difficult,” yet the necessity of enforcing league policies was emphasized. The league is also set to review and potentially adapt the policy regarding All-Star Game participation in the future.

Inter Miami’s coach addressed the challenges associated with the scheduling of the All-Star Game, suggesting there is a need for adequate rest for players. Messi reportedly was rested due to fatigue from a demanding schedule, while Alba was managing a minor injury. The congested schedule for Miami, having played four of their last five matches away and competing across several tournaments, was also noted.

Prior to the announcement of their suspension, both Messi and Alba actively participated in training sessions with Inter Miami. In connection with the upcoming match against FC Cincinnati, coach Pat Noonan stated that his team had prepared without expecting to face Messi and Alba.

The decision to suspend Messi and Alba draws parallels to a previous incident in 2018 when Zlatan Ibrahimović faced a similar penalty for missing the All-Star Game. Currently, Messi’s contract with Inter Miami extends until the end of the 2025 season, and discussions regarding a potential extension are ongoing. The league has also recently unveiled a “Player Spotlight” event on TikTok featuring Messi, which achieved record viewership numbers last season.

This suspension marks a significant moment in the ongoing compliance with league policies as MLS aims to maintain fairness and uphold the standards expected from its players. With both stars sidelined, Inter Miami will look to navigate their upcoming match against FC Cincinnati as they strive for success amidst a rigorous schedule.