Lionel Messi takes subtle shot at MLS after receiving one-game suspension for skipping All-Star Game

Inter Miami come off a hard-fought 2-1 win over Atlas in the Leagues Cup, a match that also marked Lionel Messi’s return to the lineup after serving a one-game suspension. The Argentine star had missed the All-Star Game, and following the league’s disciplinary response, he didn’t hold back in voicing his frustration.

Just days ago, the 2025 MLS All-Star Game took place, featuring the best players from Major League Soccer and Liga MX. The event ended with a 3-1 win for the MLS side and provided plenty of entertainment for fans. However, it wasn’t without controversy, especially due to notable absences—none bigger than Messi’s. The Inter Miami captain did not travel to Texas for the showcase.

After returning to action against Atlas, Messi addressed the issue in the mixed zone. “At first it felt a little heavy. I had been playing consistently, but the other day they didn’t let me play, and I felt it, especially in the first half,” he said, clearly annoyed with the league’s decision.

He continued, “Not playing the other day—it may seem like a good thing on paper—but for me, it’s worse. I need to compete to feel good physically. I get into rhythm by playing games.” While his absence at the All-Star Game raised eyebrows, there are legitimate reasons for caution—like injury prevention—that can ultimately affect MLS’s overall product and even TV ratings.

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami reacts in the second half during the Leagues Cup Phase One match between Inter Miami CF and Atlas FC

Why didn’t Messi play the All-Star Game?

Messi had been coming off a demanding run of matches and, according to Javier Mascherano, was dealing with minor muscle discomfort. Even so, MLS didn’t grant any leeway. The league opted to suspend him for one game, forcing him to miss Inter Miami’s weekend match—a decision that didn’t sit well with the Argentine’s camp.

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Mascherano expresses frustration with MLS

Javier Mascherano didn’t mince words when addressing the suspension during his postgame press conference after Inter Miami’s 0-0 draw with FC Cincinnati. The match also marked Rodrigo De Paul’s official debut with the club. Mascherano took aim at what he called poor organization and decision-making by the league.

“I didn’t come here to criticize MLS or to change the rules,” the former Argentina U-20 head coach began. “We adapt to what happens, even though I strongly disagree with the decision. I don’t agree with it at all.”

Mascherano also questioned the inconsistency in Major League Soccer’s handling of the situation. “One day it’s one thing, and the next day it’s something else,” he said, referring to the league’s delayed confirmation of Messi’s suspension, which was only finalized hours before kickoff.

“Everyone agreed that it was understandable, given the number of matches he had been playing,” Mascherano added. “We’re not asking for special treatment. But let me ask you—what if today’s game against Cincinnati had been away? Would they still have asked Leo not to play? Because when it comes to selling tickets and packing stadiums, nobody complains. But this time the game happened to be at home.”