Why can Lionel Messi be banned for Inter Miami Next Match? Revealed

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Lionel Messi did not play in the 2025 MLS All-Star Game against the Liga MX All-Stars, despite being included in the official roster.

MLS All-Stars registered a 3-1 win over their Mexican counterparts, but the crowd in Austin was largely disappointed as Messi didn't show up for the clash.

His absence was primarily due to managing his physical workload and prioritizing rest after an intense schedule rather than an injury. Messi missed training sessions and team events leading up to the game, signaling a precautionary approach to his physical condition amid a demanding season with Inter Miami, where he has played multiple full 90-minute matches in a short period.

Why Lionel Messi can be Banned Next Match

Major League Soccer (MLS) has a rule that players who skip the All-Star Game without a valid medical reason face a one-match suspension from regular league play. This is a precedent the league has enforced before, such as in Zlatan Ibrahimovic's case in 2018. Since Messi's absence lacked a confirmed injury, he is at risk of a one-match ban, which could cause him to miss Inter Miami's next league match against FC Cincinnati at home scheduled for Saturday.

"All the noises say that after Club World Cup duty and then five MLS fixtures in 15 days (in which he scored eight goals), the 38-year-old opted for a spot of rest," a report from The Athletic quoted, which further indicates that it was the Argentine's choice to miss the game, rather than a forced decision.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber has publicly acknowledged the issue but declined to confirm whether Messi's suspension will be enforced, stating the league is "managing through this process." Garber recognized Messi's gruelling playing schedule recently, noting that the All-Star Game is an important event but also suggesting sensitivity to the player's workload.

Inter Miami's coach Javier Mascherano had earlier expressed a preference for Messi and Jordi Alba to rest rather than participate in the All-Star festivities, but clarified that the decision was not his to make officially. Both Messi and Alba missed the game and related All-Star activities.