Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba of Inter Miami to miss MLS All-Star Game in Austin
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi (10) looks into the stands after scoring a goal during the second half of an MLS soccer match [against the New York Red Bulls Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Harrison, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Lionel Messi will miss the Major League Soccer All-Star Game against Liga MX on Wednesday night.
Messi's teammate at Inter Miami, Jordi Alba, will also miss the game.
An MLS spokesperson said Inter Miami informed league officials that the two players will not appear in the match at Q2 Stadium.
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, right, gestures after scoring a goal as Jordi Alba walks away during the second half of an MLS soccer match against the New York Red Bulls Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Harrison, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Both could face a one-match suspension for missing the All-Star Game without a credible injury report. The league will speak with Inter Miami officials before providing an update on possible suspensions.
Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba (18) runs with the ball as Nashville SC midfielder Edvard Tagseth (20) defends during the second half of an MLS soccer match, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Messi missed the All-Star Game last year with an injury.
Messi is tied with Nashville forward Sam Surridge for the MLS lead in goals scored with 18. Messi has scored two goals in six of his last seven matches.
Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba, behind, lifts forward Lionel Messi (10) as they celebrate Messi's goal in the first half of an MLS soccer match against the New England Revolution, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
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