Inter Miami Stars Messi and Alba Suspended Over All-Star Snub, Club Slams Harsh MLS Rule

Inter Miami’s star players Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been officially suspended for one Major League Soccer (MLS) game after withdrawing from the MLS and Liga MX All-Star Game. Despite their immense contributions to the league and their club, the pair could not escape the consequences of an existing MLS rule. According to the league's policy, if a player selected for the All-Star Game is not injured and still does not participate, that player is automatically suspended for the next regular league match. This policy has now sidelined Messi and Alba from Miami’s upcoming match against FC Cincinnati, scheduled to be played at home.

The decision sparked strong criticism from Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas, who described the suspension as “very harsh” and expressed his disappointment over the lack of flexibility in the league’s rules. Mas said, “They (Messi and Alba) do not understand this decision. Such a decision is very harsh. Messi is very upset, so to speak, everyone in the club feels the same. But I think everyone in the club needs to be together and make their attitude clear to the world. Naturally, neither of them reacted positively to the suspension.” Mas pointed out that both players had followed the club's instructions and had only withdrawn due to the need for rest after a long run of consecutive games.

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have played seven straight matches for Inter Miami since the conclusion of the FIFA Club World Cup. Given the tight schedule and physical demands, concerns had been growing around their fitness and fatigue levels. The club, prioritizing player health and long-term performance, made the decision to rest both stars during the exhibition All-Star fixture. Mas defended this move strongly, saying, “Messi and Alba did what the club wanted. We have full support for them. However, it is true that they cannot accept being banned from league play for an exhibition match.”

The suspension has stirred broader conversations around player workload, scheduling, and league policies. Messi’s involvement in the growth and global visibility of MLS has been unprecedented. Since joining Inter Miami, he has brought worldwide attention to the league and contributed significantly both on and off the pitch. Recognizing this, MLS Commissioner Don Garber offered a diplomatic response. “I know how much Lionel Messi loves this league. I also don’t think anyone has done more for Major League Soccer than Messi,” Garber said. “I understand his respect, his commitment to Inter Miami, and at the same time, I respect his decision. Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy for playing the All-Star Game and, although it was difficult, we had to implement that decision.”

Despite the suspension, Messi trained with the team as usual in preparation for the upcoming match. But the news of the ban was a major blow to Inter Miami, particularly as they face a tough opponent in FC Cincinnati. Jorge Mas continued to push back against the fairness of the rule, stating, “There are six MLS games less than 48 hours apart from the All-Star Game. This is not right. It is not fair to the players.” His statement sheds light on the growing tension between commercial events like All-Star games and the demands of a packed competitive schedule.

As the debate continues, the incident has put the spotlight on the need for potential reforms in league policy. It also raises an important question: Should star players be punished for prioritizing health and performance over exhibition matches? For now, Inter Miami must cope without their two biggest names on the pitch, while the league faces increased scrutiny over its treatment of marquee players and player welfare.