Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas expressed that Lionel Messi is "extremely disappointed" after Major League Soccer handed him a one-game suspension for opting out of Wednesday’s All-Star Game.
At a press conference on Friday, Mas said, "Lionel Messi is very upset about not being able to play tomorrow night, and we share that sentiment as a club. Our focus should be on how we interact with the broader soccer community."
Both Messi and teammate Jordi Alba, who also skipped the All-Star event, will be unavailable for Inter Miami’s match against FC Cincinnati, the leaders of the MLS Eastern Conference, on Saturday. The league’s policy states that players who do not attend without prior approval will miss the next game.
Mas characterized the punishment as excessively strict, remarking, "I think the consequences for rule violations are frankly unfair." He acknowledged that Messi and Alba’s responses were understandable, as they are competitive players who were confused by the decision. "Their disappointment is expected, particularly since they didn’t comprehend why they weren’t part of the exhibition," he added.
Mas emphasized that the decision for Messi and Alba to skip the event was made by the club to prioritize the players’ health amid a demanding schedule. Inter Miami communicated their concerns about the players participating after a grueling nine-game stretch in 36 days.
As part of their busy 2025 season, Inter Miami is involved in the CONCACAF Champions League, the MLS Regular Season, and the FIFA Club World Cup, with intentions to participate in the upcoming League Cup.
He reiterated, "This week’s decision was made by the club, and I want to fully support Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba in this matter." Mas assured that similar choices would be made in the future if faced with another tight schedule.
In light of this situation, MLS Commissioner Don Garber mentioned they are currently reviewing future policies. "I’m collaborating with players to assess how the regulations should progress," Garber noted.
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs out at the conclusion of the 2025 season, with talks for a new agreement already in progress. Mas remarked on Messi’s state of mind, stating, "He is understandably very upset today," when questioned about how the suspension might affect Messi’s view of the league and his willingness to extend his contract.
"I hope this doesn’t have lasting consequences. Will it impact players’ attitudes toward league rules? Absolutely," he added.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights the tension between league policies and player welfare, raising concerns about how such decisions might affect player morale and engagement. The potential repercussions on Messi’s future in MLS could shift the league’s dynamics and impact its global appeal, making every decision increasingly crucial for the sport.
