Relief For Inter Miami - Messi Avoids Suspension, Eligible For Cincinnati Game

Relief For Inter Miami - Messi Avoids Suspension, Eligible For Cincinnati Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Well, if you didn't know it before, the latest decision confirms it. Lionel Messi and his mates are untouchable! Despite blatantly disregarding the call-up for the MLS All-Star game against the Liga MX All-Stars, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have walked off free.

While Major League Soccer rules explicitly state that players can face a one-game suspension for not participating in the marquee game, Inter Miami head coach Xavier Mascherano provided positive news to fans ahead of the team's upcoming clash against Cincinnati FC.

Mascherano clears stance over Messi's All-Star absence

Xavier Mascherano was one of the first people who were vehemently against Lionel Messi taking part in the All-Star game. The Inter Miami head coach earlier this month claimed the match schedule was already too harsh on his players, and the additional burden of the All-Star game was a tough pill to swallow.

Mascherano addressed the media ahead of the team's upcoming game, clarifying his previous take on Lionel Messi's exclusion from the All-Star game.

The manager stated, "Look, players always have discomfort, especially when they play every three days. But luckily, he is returning today. Let's hope he can train alongside the group so we can count on both of them for tomorrow's game. We haven't received any [sanction .]"

He then further questioned the league's decision to hold the All-Star game mid-season, claiming, "What I think is that if they want to do this type of event, it's great to do it, and the truth is that it's great for the league. There shouldn't be a date in the schedule. It's crazy. We've been playing four of the last five games away. We've been playing four away. We've been playing practically every three days."

Lionel Messi avoiding suspension for blatantly disregarding MLS's rules is bound to raise concerns with multiple other players answering the same call. However, as long as the golden goose continues to deliver on American soil, it's unlikely that the league officials will do anything to disappoint the Argentine. Especially when he is yet to sign a new contract!

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.