Lionel Messi criticized by two American legends over MLS All-Star Game absence

After the controversial decision not to participate in the All-Star Game on Wednesday night, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were suspended by Major League Soccer and will not be available for Inter Miami’s match against FC Cincinnati this Saturday at Chase Stadium. Two United States soccer legends shared their thoughts on the unusual situation.

“Any team, including the MLS All Star team in this case, would want Messi playing in it… so this puts MLS in this awkward situation of having their marquee player not playing in their marquee game, and by contract violation,” said Alexi Lalas on his State of the Union podcast.

“This is a contractual obligation, and MLS and Inter Miami are paying you a boatload of money, and Apple for that matter, are paying you a boatload of money,” added the two-time World Cup participant with the USMNT. “You signed the contract. If you did not like the contract at the time, you should have changed it… And if you can’t, then don’t sign the contract if you’re not going to live up to it.”

Messi and Alba’s decision to skip the All-Star Game reportedly had to do with prioritizing rest, following several intense weeks of play with minimal recovery time. However, this choice ultimately backfired, as Inter Miami will now be without them for a critical clash against Eastern Conference leaders Cincinnati.

Landon Donovan and Alexi Lalas of the US National Team stand for the National Anthem before the MLS All Star match against the MLS All Star Team on August 3, 2002.

Beyond the sporting implications—which are undoubtedly significant in this controversy—Lalas emphasized how the situation reflects poorly on everyone involved. “It’s a bad look for Messi. I think it’s a bad look for MLS,” said the former player. “Messi, as awesome as he is, it doesn’t mean that he is not worthy of criticism.”

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Landon Donovan also shared his thoughts on Messi

In addition to Alexi Lalas, another former U.S. soccer star commented on the All-Star Game controversy. “From the League’s perspective this is really frustrating because you have your best player, your partners want him there, the owners want him there, the sponsors want him there, the fans want him there, the other guys on the MLS All-Star team want the chance to play with Messi – that’s a dream for them,” said Landon Donovan in a post on the official Instagram account of Unfiltered Soccer.

The former American forward also spoke about the potential consequences of Messi’s absence and the resulting suspension. “From Lionel Messi’s standpoint, I can understand why he didn’t want to come,” said Donovan. “Inter Miami and the league are trying to renegotiate, so that he stays here – his contract is up at the end of the season. So this becomes a really challenging situation.”

What’s next for Messi?

Head coach Javier Mascherano will need to find alternatives to replace two of his top players in Saturday’s match against FC Cincinnati at Chase Stadium. Once that game is behind them, Inter Miami will shift focus to the Leagues Cup, where they will make their debut Wednesday night against Atlas of Mexico. Messi is expected to play in that match and, as always, will be the center of attention. The Herons will then face Necaxa and Pumas as they aim to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.