MLS Controversy: Messi and Jordi Alba Suspended One Match for Missing All-Star Game
A new controversy is rocking Major League Soccer (MLS) after league officials handed Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba a one-match suspension for missing the recent MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas. The match, which featured top players from the MLS and Liga MX, was held on Wednesday—but Messi and Alba, both key figures for Inter Miami, were noticeably absent.
The league’s decision has sparked a backlash, especially from Inter Miami fans and club executives. According to official club statements, the decision to withhold both players from the All-Star event was made strictly for sporting reasons, with a focus on injury prevention.
“Messi has played five full MLS matches in just 14 days,” the club stated. “We made the decision not to risk his health after such a demanding schedule.”
Despite this explanation, MLS rules require selected All-Star players to attend unless medically excused. The league proceeded with disciplinary action, suspending both Messi and Alba for one official match outside of All-Star play.
This ruling means Messi will not be available for Inter Miami’s next league match, scheduled for this weekend—a significant blow to a team vying for top position in the Eastern Conference.
The controversy has ignited a broader debate on how the league balances player safety, marketing priorities, and sporting integrity, especially when global icons like Messi are involved.
As tensions rise, many are calling for the league to reassess its All-Star participation policy, particularly during congested fixture periods when international players already face extreme physical demands.
Stay tuned as SFSC continues to follow the fallout from this developing story.
