The All-Star teams of America’s Major League Soccer (MLS) and Mexico’s Liga MX faced off in Austin, Texas today (Thursday). Although Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were on the initial list of the MLS All-Stars, they withdrew their names from the final squad. As a result, the two former Barcelona stars did not play in the All-Star game naturally. Because of this, Messi and Alba could face bans.
According to MLS rules, if a player initially named does not play in the All-Star Game despite not being injured, he will be banned from one game in the league. And Messi-Alba could fall under this strict rule. Inter Miami will face FC Cincinnati at home next Saturday. The Florida club is likely to lose its two main stars in that match. The MLS authorities have not yet made an official announcement about this.
The American League team, however, defeated the Mexican League All-Stars 3-1 without Messi-Alba. Such a match has been held with the MLS All-Stars since 1996. It started with the East vs. West format of the US League. After that, after forming a team from MLS, they played with various clubs around the world. As part of the world tour, Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus were the opponents of the MLS All-Star team. In five of the first six seasons, MLS’s best squads have competed against Liga MX.
Meanwhile, regarding the withdrawal of Messi and Alba from the All-Star game, the news agency AFP reported that Miami informed MLS at the last minute that Messi and Alba would not be able to play in the game. They did not immediately give a specific reason for this. According to MLS rules, Messi and Alba could now face a one-game suspension.
MLS Commissioner Don Gerber, however, is not opening his mouth about the punishment of the two stars right now. Gerber did not say anything about whether the league authorities will punish the two Miami stars or not. Leaving uncertainty before the start of the match, Gerber told the media, “We are not going to talk today about anything that will happen next week (Miami’s next match). The match is next week, we don’t need to answer that. We are moving forward with the process as we said. But they should have told us about it earlier.”
Although the reason for Messi-Albar’s withdrawal was not disclosed, it can be assumed that Inter Miami wanted to rest them. The issue was also discussed repeatedly in coach Javier Mascherano’s press conference. Messi has played in seven consecutive matches, especially after the FIFA Club World Cup. However, this Argentine superstar was in great form during this time. He became the first player in MLS history to score a brace in five consecutive matches. In between, he did not score a goal, and Miami’s winning streak also came to an end. However, in the last match, Messi again scored a brace and assisted, leading Miami to a 5-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls.
FAQ
Is it true that Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba are being banned?
According to reports, yes — both Messi and Alba are facing a possible ban, but the full details depend on the official confirmation and reason behind the decision.
What is the reason for their reported ban?
The specific reason may involve disciplinary action, such as a red card incident, on-field behavior, or violation of league or club rules. Exact details would depend on the league’s statement.
Which club are they currently playing for?
As of 2025, both Messi and Alba are playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS).
How long will the ban last?
The duration of the ban has not been confirmed yet. It could range from one match to multiple games, depending on the severity of the issue.
