Lionel Messi, along with his teammate Jordi Alba, has been handed a one-match suspension by Major League Soccer after both players missed the 2025 MLS All-Star Game without obtaining prior approval from the league. This disciplinary action means that Messi will be sidelined for Inter Miami’s next match against FC Cincinnati, marking a significant setback for the club as they prepare for this important fixture.
Inter Miami criticized the MLS decision as excessively harsh, labeling the ban “draconian” while defending their policy of managing player rest. The club highlighted the intense schedule their players endured, featuring nine matches within a 36-day span, arguing exhaustion should be taken into account. Despite the strict enforcement of league rules, MLS officials indicated they are open to revisiting the policy in collaboration with clubs moving forward.
Context Behind the Suspension and Club Response
The suspension stems from a league rule that requires players to obtain permission before missing marquee MLS events such as the All-Star Game. Messi’s absence triggered the automatic ban, as he did not secure prior consent. Inter Miami, however, has raised concerns about the timing of such punishment given the ongoing demands on players during a congested season.
The club emphasized the need for rest and recovery, especially for high-profile stars like Messi and Alba, who play critical roles on the team. The intense competition over recent weeks, combined with travel and training demands, has fueled the club’s frustrations with what it views as inflexible league policies that do not reflect player welfare adequately.
Implications of Messi’s Suspension on Inter Miami’s Upcoming Matches
Missing Messi for their next match is a considerable blow to Inter Miami, given his key status as their leading player. Messi’s presence often influences game dynamics and can be pivotal in securing wins. The timing could also affect the team’s momentum as they seek consistency in league play.
With both Messi and Alba out of the lineup, Inter Miami will need to adjust their tactics and rely on other squad members to fill the void. This suspension adds pressure on the team to perform without two of their top contributors while also navigating the broader challenges of a demanding MLS season.
Other Recent Developments in Sports
Meanwhile, several other noteworthy events have unfolded in the sporting world. Indian cricketer Shubman Gill became only the second Indian batsman to score over 700 runs in an away Test series, joining Sunil Gavaskar in this achievement. His unbeaten 78 in Manchester pushed his tally beyond Virat Kohli’s previous record of 692 runs in away Tests in England.
In legal news, Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy faces legal proceedings over allegations of unpaid dues valued at ₹5 crore. His former management firm has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court, seeking resolution for breach of contract. The hearing is scheduled for July 28, 2025.
Rishabh Pant is expected to leave the ongoing England tour after fracturing his right foot during the fourth Test in Manchester. Despite injury, Pant showed resilience to score a half-century before being advised to rest for six weeks, with Narayan Jagadeesan replacing him for the fifth Test.
In the World Championship of Legends, Shikhar Dhawan confirmed he would not play if India faces Pakistan in the semi-final or final, expressing frustration with the question during a media interaction and reiterating his earlier decision not to participate.
Other Soccer and Cricket Highlights
On the transfer front, Arsenal secured the signing of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP for an initial £55 million, potentially rising to £63.5 million with add-ons. The 27-year-old has signed a five-year contract and will wear the No. 14 shirt. He immediately joined Arsenal’s preseason tour in Asia, which includes stops in Singapore and Hong Kong, and may make his debut against Tottenham in an upcoming friendly.
The 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup final between Divya Deshmukh and Koneru Humpy in Batumi, Georgia, began with a closely fought first game. Deshmukh surprised Humpy with the Queen’s Gambit and almost converted a winning advantage, but Humpy’s solid defense led to a draw after 41 moves. With the match tied 1-1, the second game will likely determine the champion or push the contest into rapid/blitz tiebreaks.
Manchester United launched their 2025 preseason tour in the USA with a 2-1 victory over West Ham, powered by a brace from Bruno Fernandes. New signing Matheus Cunha impressed in his second appearance, blending well with team partners. Manager Ruben Amorim is now balancing tactical decisions as the team continues to adapt ahead of the new season.
In India’s Calcutta Football League, East Bengal outlasted archrivals Mohun Bagan 3-2 in a thrilling derby. East Bengal held a 2-0 lead at halftime, which Mohun Bagan narrowed before David Lalhlansanga scored the decisive winner in the 69th minute. Other scorers included Jesin TK and Sayan Banerjee for East Bengal, while Kiyan Nassiri and Leewan Castanha scored for Mohun Bagan.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Messi and MLS
Messi’s suspension highlights the ongoing tension between MLS’s strict regulatory framework and clubs’ concerns over player health amid demanding schedules. The league’s firm stance underscores its commitment to enforcing rules, but the willingness to consider collaborative adjustments suggests potential flexibility in future policies.
For Inter Miami and Messi, this incident may serve as a catalyst for dialogue on managing top players’ rest without incurring punitive measures. The broader significance lies in balancing competitive integrity with player welfare as MLS continues to grow in global stature.
As the 2025 MLS season progresses, how the league and clubs address such situations will be pivotal in shaping player management norms and could impact the participation of marquee stars like Lionel Messi in key events and matches ahead.