MLS suspends Messi, Alba

Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been suspended by Major League Soccer (MLS) after failing to appear at this week’s All-Star events.

Despite being voted into the MLS All-Star Game, both Messi and Alba were absent from the All-Star Skills Challenge on Tuesday, as well as the marquee match against Mexico’s Liga MX select side on Wednesday.

Under MLS regulations, players selected for the All-Star Game who miss the event without proper authorization are subject to disciplinary action. On Friday, league officials confirmed that the two players would each serve a one-game suspension.

As a result, Messi and Alba will not be available for Inter Miami’s upcoming league fixture against FC Cincinnati scheduled for Saturday night.

Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas reacted strongly to the decision, revealing that Messi is “extremely upset” over the suspension. “I don’t agree with the rule,” Mas stated. “I have made my thoughts known to the commissioner very plainly.”

The suspension adds to the growing debate about player commitments and league rules regarding high-profile events like the All-Star Game, especially involving international icons like Messi.