Messi Faces Potential Inter Miami Ban After Skipping MLS All-Star Game
Lionel Messi faces the possibility of an expensive suspension should he decline to participate in the MLS All-Star Game.
Messi's selection to lead the 26-man MLS All-Star squad was hardly unexpected. The Inter Miami forward has netted 18 goals across the same number of league matches this campaign, topping the MLS Golden Boot standings despite being 38 years old. The Argentine also boasts seven assists this season.
However, doubts now emerge regarding Messi's involvement in the MLS All-Star Game. The superstar was conspicuously missing from the squad's initial training session on Monday, alongside Inter Miami colleague and fellow MLS All-Star Jordi Alba.
If Messi and Alba choose not to take part in the match without providing medical documentation of injury, MLS could impose a one-game ban on both players. The ex-Barcelona duo would consequently be forced to sit out Inter Miami's crucial encounter against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 28.
Regarding Messi's availability, MLS All-Star coach Nico Estévez confessed that even he remains uncertain whether the striker will appear at Q2 Stadium on Wednesday, July 23.
"I just work with and guide the players provided to me," Estévez stated during the pre-game press briefing. "I believe that question is better directed toward [MLS and Inter Miami]."
The Austin FC head coach stays "hopeful" that Messi will link up with his squad for the upcoming battle against the Liga MX All-Stars. This would mark the current league MVP's debut MLS All-Star Game appearance after missing the previous year's event due to injury.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has previously expressed concerns about forcing Messi and Alba to participate in an additional fixture amid an already congested schedule for the Herons.
"The players receive call-ups, I wish they could have rest but that choice isn't mine," Mascherano commented. "I understand the significance of the All Star [Game], and from what I understand there's no club decision made, everything remains normal."
All attention will focus on Messi and Alba this Wednesday to determine whether the Inter Miami duo will feature in the MLS All-Star Game or face suspension for one of their club's most challenging league fixtures of the campaign.