Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba Facing Suspension? Inter Miami Stars Miss MLS All-Star Game, Face Reprimand
Lionel Messi will not take part in the Major League Soccer All-Star Game against Liga MX, set to take place Wednesday night at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba will also be absent from the high-profile event.
An MLS spokesperson confirmed that Inter Miami had informed league officials of the duo's non-participation. Both players have been notably absent from this week's All-Star festivities, including public appearances and the pre-match skills competition.
According to league rules, any player who misses the All-Star Game without a legitimate injury or medical reason may face disciplinary consequences, including a one-match suspension from club play.
As of now, MLS has not received a credible injury report for either Messi or Alba. The league has stated that it will consult with Inter Miami officials before making a final determination on potential suspensions.
Messi also missed last year's All-Star Game due to injury, but this time, the absence has not been accompanied by an explanation.
Jordi Alba had been scheduled to participate in Tuesday night's All-Star Skills Challenge, an annual component of All-Star Week. However, he was withdrawn from the event without any public reasoning, and neither Inter Miami nor MLS has issued a statement addressing his or Messi's absences.
Their withdrawal comes as a disappointment for fans and organizers alike, especially considering the draw and star power both players bring to league events.
MLS All-Star Game: A Key Fixture Since 1996
The MLS All-Star Game has been a staple of the league since its inception in 1996. Originally played in an East vs. West format similar to other American sports leagues, the event evolved to feature a single MLS All-Star team taking on elite clubs from around the world.
Over the years, teams such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Juventus, Roma, Tottenham, and Arsenal have faced off against MLS's best.
More recently, the format has shifted to pit the MLS All-Stars against a select squad from Mexico's Liga MX, highlighting the growing competitive and commercial partnership between the two leagues.
(with agency inputs)
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