Don't want to play MLS All-star game?! No MLS for you
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Reading Time: 1min | Fri. 25.07.25. | 23:00
Lionel Messi is suspended after skipping the special game
Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba have been suspended for one game for skipping Major League Soccer's All-Star game earlier this week.
Both players missed Wednesday's match in Austin, Texas, where the MLS squad posted a 3-1 win against Mexico's Liga MX All-Stars.
"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 said in a statement on Friday.
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been suspended for Inter Miami's matchup with FC Cincinnati on Saturday for skipping the MLS All-Star Game, per @tombogert pic.twitter.com/1LmBrG9XDB
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 25, 2025
As a consequence, Messi and Alba will miss Miami's home league fixture against FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
MLS commissioner Don Garber said suspending Messi was a "very difficult decision".
"I know Lionel Messi loves this league," he said.
"I don't think there's a player - or anyone - who has done more for MLS than Messi. I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision.
"Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game and we had to enforce it."
The 38-year-old Messi has scored 18 goals in as many appearances for Javier Mascherano's side in the MLS this season.
