Messi and Alba Suspended: MLS All-Star Absence
Messi and Alba Banned for Inter Miami’s Next Match After All-Star Game Absence
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Inter Miami CF stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will miss their upcoming league fixture against FC Cincinnati due to their absence from the 2025 MLS All-Star Game. The decision comes as a direct consequence of league rules, which stipulate that any player not participating in the All-Star Game without prior league approval faces ineligibility for their club’s subsequent match.
League Rules Enforced Despite Star Power
An official MLS statement confirmed the unavailability of the two prominent players. “Inter Miami CF defender Jordi Alba and forward Lionel Messi will be unavailable for the club’s Matchday 27 game against FC Cincinnati on Saturday evening, due to their absence at the 2025 MLS All-Star Game,” the statement read. It further clarified the league’s stance: “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.”
This strict enforcement of the rules highlights the league’s commitment to its established policies, even when dealing with its biggest draw. Despite Messi’s immense impact on Major League Soccer, Commissioner Don Garber emphasized that the rules must be applied universally.
Commissioner Garber Addresses the Decision
“I know Lionel Messi loves this league. I don’t think there’s a player – or anyone – who has done more for Major League Soccer then Messi,” Garber stated, acknowledging the argentine’s significant contributions. He continued, “I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision.”
However, Garber was firm on the necessity of upholding the league’s regulations. “Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game, and we had to enforce it. It was a very arduous decision.”
Future Policy Review
While the immediate consequence for Messi and Alba is a one-match ban, Commissioner Garber indicated a willingness to re-evaluate the league’s policy moving forward. “That said, we’re going to take a hard look at the policy moving forward. I’m committed to working with our players to determine how the rule should evolve.” This suggests a potential shift in how player participation in the All-Star Game is managed in the future, possibly allowing for more flexibility or clearer guidelines for star players.
The absence of Messi and Alba is a significant blow to Inter Miami as they prepare for their crucial match against FC Cincinnati. Their unavailability underscores the complex balance between individual player commitments, league mandates, and the overall spectacle of MLS events. The league’s decision, while stringent, sets a precedent for the importance of adhering to its established framework, even for its most celebrated athletes.