MLS in dilemma because of Messi

Messi - Photo 1.

Messi makes MLS embarrassed again - Photo: Reuters

The MLS All-Stars eventually won 3-1 against the Liga MX All-Stars (Mexico). However, Messi's sudden absence just 8 hours before the match caused MLS to "lose face" with fans and sponsors.

Specifically, they now face a difficult decision when having to choose whether to comply with the regulations and suspend their icon Messi. Or make an exception for the player who changed the face of the entire tournament.

In the post-match press conference, MLS member Don Garber could not hide his disappointment and refused to answer whether Lionel Messi would be punished or not.

According to MLS rules, players selected for the All-Star team but not participating without a valid reason (such as injury) will receive a one-game suspension for the club's next match.

This means Messi will likely have to sit out Inter Miami's crucial match against league leaders FC Cincinnati on July 26.

However, the issue is not simple. Mr. Garber and MLS are well aware of the reasons that can forgive Messi.

The 38-year-old has been working through a gruelling schedule, playing the full 90 minutes in nine consecutive matches in just 35 days, including the FIFA Club World Cup and domestic league.

In total, Messi has played more than 2,000 minutes in 22 of his 23 games since April. Inter Miami is also the team with the most games in the league with 34 matches in all competitions in 2025.

But he also stressed discipline shortly after: "But we have rules, and we have to manage that too."

The contradiction in Mr. Garber’s statement highlights the dilemma MLS is in. This is not the first time a major MLS star has faced punishment for skipping the All-Star Game. Previously, Zlatan Ibrahimovic was suspended for one game for refusing to play in the All-Star Game in 2018.

Suspending Messi would be a fair move for the tournament. However, this move could upset Messi - the star who brings huge value to MLS -.

At the same time, and possibly disappointing fans who bought tickets to see Messi play. No one can deny Messi's influence on MLS.

Since joining the league in 2023, the 2022 World Cup winner has revolutionized the league, helping to raise MLS's global profile, attracting huge audiences and boosting ticket sales and lucrative television deals.

THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/mls-kho-xu-vi-messi-20250725110153516.htm