Messi Returns with Fire After Controversial MLS Ban, Leads Miami to Leagues Cup Win

A few days have passed since Major League Soccer (MLS) authorities imposed a ban on Lionel Messi, sidelining him for one match. Now back on the field, the fire of frustration inside Messi remains far from quenched. The Argentine superstar has clearly struggled to come to terms with being suspended for a game, and this lingering anger was evident in his reactions following Inter Miami’s dramatic win in the Leagues Cup. Messi and his teammate Jordi Alba were both suspended for refusing to participate in the MLS All-Star game, a decision rooted in long-standing league rules. According to MLS regulations, no player can withdraw from an MLS match or official event without prior approval from the league authorities unless they are injured. Since Messi and Alba did not get permission and skipped the exhibition game, they were banned for the next competitive match. This suspension caused them to miss Miami’s crucial fixture against FC Cincinnati, which ended in a draw.

Jorge Mas, one of the owners of Inter Miami, revealed that Messi was furious about the ban. Mas explained that neither Messi nor Alba could understand why the league would punish them with a competitive match suspension for not playing in an exhibition game. This anger was understandable since the All-Star match is considered a friendly event, unlike regular-season games. Despite the setback, both players made their return in the next match on Thursday morning Bangladesh time during the Leagues Cup. Their comeback was pivotal as Miami defeated Mexican club Atlas FC 2-1 in a thrilling and closely contested match.

Although Messi and Alba did not score goals themselves, the victory was heavily influenced by Messi’s creative presence. Both Miami goals came from his precise passes, highlighting his role as the team’s playmaker. After the game, Messi admitted he struggled to find his rhythm early on, especially in the first half, due to missing the previous match. He said, “They didn’t let me play that day and I felt that lack in the first half today. But the most important thing is that in the end we won.” His focus was clearly on the team’s success, even as he acknowledged the personal difficulty caused by the enforced rest.

Messi further opened up about the challenges he has faced this summer. He said, “The truth is, this summer I have a hard time. Especially not being able to play in the previous match. Although rest feels good, for me it is the worst. For me it is important to fight. The more matches I play, the better I feel and the more in rhythm I am.” This statement reflects Messi’s passion for the game and his desire to stay sharp by playing regularly, rather than being sidelined, even temporarily.

Inter Miami’s strong performance in this Leagues Cup match marked a promising start to the tournament, which is making a big return in 2023 after being held annually since 2019. Miami entered the competition as the reigning champions, eager to defend their title. This year’s Leagues Cup format has changed to include all 18 teams from Mexico’s Liga MX and the top 18 teams from MLS, totaling 36 teams competing for the trophy. The tournament is widely regarded as a significant competition for clubs from both leagues, offering high-level matches and intense rivalry.

Messi praised the Leagues Cup, emphasizing its importance for the team. He said, “It is a great tournament for us, where we always fight. Playing against Mexican teams is also a difficult test for us. The format has changed, so we can enjoy and play. It is a great competition and this victory is of great importance.” His words show respect for the challenge posed by Mexican teams and his excitement for the tournament’s competitive nature.

In summary, Messi’s ban was a controversial and frustrating chapter for the superstar, but his fiery return demonstrated his leadership and skill. Despite the setbacks, Inter Miami managed to secure a valuable win in the Leagues Cup, largely thanks to Messi’s influence on the pitch. As the tournament progresses, fans will be eager to see how Messi and his teammates continue to perform, motivated by both the desire for victory and Messi’s personal drive to stay match-fit and competitive.