## Inter Miami Duo, Messi and Alba, Benched for MLS All-Star Game
In a surprising turn of events, the dynamic duo of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba from Inter Miami will be sitting out the highly anticipated MLS All-Star Game, as confirmed by the league just recently. The match-up is set to pit a squad of MLS All-Stars against a formidable team of Liga MX All-Stars in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, under the stars on Wednesday night.
### Messi Misses Out Again!
Lionel Messi, the Argentine maestro, will once more miss the MLS All-Star showdown due to an ankle injury sustained while representing his homeland at the Copa América. The buzz surrounding their absence began to intensify earlier this week when both Messi and Alba were notably absent from Monday’s crucial training session.
After a tough 2024 season marred by injuries, the resilient 38-year-old Messi has showcased outstanding endurance by featuring in every minute of Inter Miami’s last 19 matches. The Herons, currently boasting a commendable 12-4-5 record, find themselves perched at the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference after 21 gripping encounters.
Coach Javier Mascherano of Inter Miami expressed his desire for the star players to take a break from the game, stating emphatically, “The players are called up, I would like them to be able to rest but that is not my decision.” Despite his hopes, Messi and Alba did not shy away from delivering a scintillating performance during the team’s recent 5-1 triumph over the New York Red Bulls, with Alba netting the first goal and Messi unleashing a brace in the second half.
### Possible Suspensions Looming?
According to the MLS regulations, players who withdraw from the All-Star Game without a legitimate medical excuse could face a one-game suspension. As per ESPN’s intrepid reporter Lizzy Becherano, discussions are slated to take place between league authorities and Inter Miami’s representatives to deliberate on the availability of both Messi and Alba for the upcoming clash against FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
It’s worth noting that former LA Galaxy luminary Zlatan Ibrahimović found himself serving a one-game suspension back in 2018 when he was absent from the All-Star Game showdown against Serie A giants Juventus. The fate of Messi and Alba hangs in the balance as they were elected into the prestigious 2025 MLS All-Star Game by the fervent fans and astute media figures.
A spokesperson for the league conveyed, “The league office needs to speak with the club before we confirm player availability for Saturday,” shedding light on the uncertainty surrounding the participation of the star-studded duo in the pivotal upcoming fixture.
Stay tuned for more updates as the suspense deepens regarding Messi and Alba’s potential return to the pitch, and let’s hope for a speedy recovery for the sidelined superstars!
