Messi has been banned from playing in MLS.

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba have been banned for one game for not participating in the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star game.

Messi has been officially suspended for one match for not participating in the MLS All-Star game - Photo: REUTERS

Both players were absent from the MLS All-Star Game, which they won 3-1 against Mexico's Liga MX All-Stars. MLS stated in a press release: "In accordance with league regulations, any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without prior league approval will be ineligible to play in their club's next game."

As a result, Messi and Jordi Alba will miss Miami's home game against FC Cincinnati on July 27. MLS Commissioner Don Garber said suspending Messi was a "very difficult decision".

He said: "I know Lionel Messi loves this league. I don't think any player – or anyone – has given more to MLS than Messi. I completely understand, respect, and admire his dedication to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision. Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding All-Star participation and we have to enforce that policy."

Messi, 38, has scored 18 goals in 18 appearances for Inter Miami in MLS this season, while Alba (36) has made 19 appearances in the league. The pair were teammates at Barcelona from 2012 to 2021, and were also part of Inter Miami's run to the quarter-finals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Speaking to ESPN earlier, Inter Miami head coach Mascherano said that Messi and many players "feel tired due to the constant number of games and minutes played." He stated, "Look, the players are always frustrated, especially when they have to play every three days."

QUOC THANG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/messi-bi-mls-cam-thi-dau-20250726063044972.htm