Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba are set to play for Inter Miami in their match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday. Coach Javier Mascherano has indicated that their absence from this week’s MLS All-Star Game won’t prevent them from participating in the upcoming match.
MLS regulations state that players who miss the All-Star Game without valid medical excuses may face a one-game suspension. According to ESPN’s Lizzy Becherano, league officials and representatives from Inter Miami discussed the availability of both players this week.
“Messi is showing typical fatigue from the number of games and minutes he’s been playing,” Mascherano mentioned via ESPN. “Players tend to feel discomfort, especially with games every three days. Fortunately, he’s back today, and I hope both can train with the group in preparation for tomorrow’s game.”
This policy was implemented after former LA Galaxy star Zlatan Ibrahimovic sat out a game for skipping the 2018 All-Star match against Italy’s Juventus.
The MLS All-Star team recently triumphed over Mexico’s La Liga MX in Austin, Texas, winning 3-1. Messi and Alba were not part of the final roster announced for the game.
On Friday, Mascherano explained that due to Inter Miami’s hectic schedule, Messi and Alba needed some time off. “These kinds of events are fantastic for the league, but our schedule is packed. We’ve played four of the last five matches without much break,” he said.
“Games are often scheduled on weekends, including the All-Star Game, but some teams play just 48 hours after their last match, which is insufficient recovery time for players. We need to prioritize player welfare.”
Messi did not participate in last year’s All-Star Game due to an ankle injury incurred while representing Argentina in the Copa America. Speculation had been rife about their participation in this year’s event since both missed Monday’s training session.
After a challenging 2024 season, the 38-year-old Messi has been consistently active, playing all minutes in Inter Miami’s last 19 matches. The team has a record of 12 wins, 4 losses, and 5 draws, placing them fifth in the Eastern Conference.
Both players contributed to Inter Miami’s impressive 5-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, with Alba scoring the first goal and Messi netting two goals in the second half. Their roles in the upcoming match against Cincinnati will become clearer after Friday morning’s training, with the team getting three days off before commencing Phase 1 of the League Cup next Wednesday.
### Fan Take:
This news is significant for soccer fans, as Messi and Alba’s presence can elevate the quality of play and excitement in the upcoming match. Their involvement not only boosts team morale but also highlights the growing prominence of MLS on a global scale.
