It was a heavy blow to MLS for the All-Star Game 2025, which was held last night at Q2 Stadium in Austin. The largest star of the competition, Lionel Messi, was absent in the All-Star team coached by Nico Estévez.
On Wednesday it was confirmed that both Messi and Jordi Alba would miss the match against the Liga MX All-Stars-a development that caused a widespread discussion. Neither MLS nor Inter Miami have issued an official statement that tackles the situation.
As learned that the absence of Messi was due to rest and recovery, because the Argentinian had confronted a heavy charge with Inter Miami in the weeks prior to the event.
With the absence confirmed, attention focused on how MLS would respond. League rules allow disciplinary measures when selected All-Star players do not participate without a valid reason. A decision about possible sanctions for Messi and Alba remains in anticipation, subject to a case assessment.
If a sanction is maintained, both players should miss the next match of Inter Miami – a collision with FC Cincinnati – which is now expected.
MLS is currently evaluating the situation in coordination with Inter Miami, which is expected to claim that the fatigue of the player and an overloaded schedule justified their absence.
Interestingly, Javier Mascherano had recently suggested that allowing his players to rest would be ideal because they are preparing for the Cincinnati match – an idea that seems to have played.
“As far as I know, there is nothing to say. The players have been called. I would like them to be able to rest in the long week. I know how important the all-star game is in this country, and there was no decision with the club,” Mascherano said just a few days ago.