MLS Suspends Messi, Alba for Missing All-Star Events Without Clearance

MLS Suspends Messi, Alba for Missing All-Star Events Without Clearance
Both to miss Inter Miami vs FC Cincinnati clash on Saturday
Inter Miami’s Jorge Mas says Messi is “extremely upset” by ruling

Major League Soccer (MLS) has suspended Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for missing the league’s All-Star events without official permission.

EDITOR’S PICKS

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the suspension, announced on Friday, rules both players out of Inter Miami’s league fixture against FC Cincinnati set for Saturday night. MLS regulations clearly state that players selected for the annual All-Star Game must attend all related activities unless formally excused. Failure to comply results in an automatic one-match suspension.

Messi and Alba, who were both voted into the All-Star team, missed Tuesday’s Skills Challenge and Wednesday’s main match against Mexico’s Liga MX select side. Their absence, without approved clearance, has now led to disciplinary action.

Reacting to the development, Inter Miami’s managing owner, Jorge Mas, expressed dissatisfaction with the rule. He revealed that Messi was “extremely upset” by the decision.

“I don’t agree with the rule,” Mas said. “I have made my thoughts known to the commissioner very plainly.”

As of Friday night, the club has not confirmed whether it plans to appeal the decision.

Their absence comes at a critical time, as Inter Miami prepares for a highly anticipated clash with FC Cincinnati. Both Messi and Alba have played key roles in the team’s recent form, and their suspension could affect the outcome of Saturday’s match.

The disciplinary action has sparked renewed discussions about the fairness of the league’s All-Star participation rules, particularly regarding high-profile players facing tight schedules and ongoing fitness concerns.