Inter Miami is scheduled to start its 2025 Leagues Cup campaign on Wednesday, July 30, facing Liga MX team Atlas at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. This match is drawing significant attention as Lionel Messi Inter Miami return is confirmed following a one-match suspension, allowing him to take the field once more for the club.
The suspension was served in Inter Miami’s last MLS game against FC Cincinnati on July 26, where Messi, alongside teammate Jordi Alba, was sidelined due to disciplinary measures enforced by Major League Soccer (MLS). Both players missed that goalless match after failing to play in the 2025 MLS All-Star Game held in Austin, Texas.
Reason Behind Messi’s Suspension and Team’s Reaction
The suspension arose because Messi and Alba did not participate in the All-Star Game without a valid medical exemption or prior league approval, a violation of MLS regulations that automatically bans players from their subsequent league match. This policy aims to maintain the integrity of league events but sparked fierce debate around Messi’s absence.
Inter Miami’s ownership and coaching staff have publicly denounced the ban as disproportionate. Club co-owner Jorge Mas described the suspension as “draconian,” highlighting Messi’s immense influence on the league’s growth and its visibility among fans and media alike.
“The ruling was draconian.” —Jorge Mas, Club Co-owner
Interim coach Javier Mascherano also criticized the decision, pointing out Messi’s demanding schedule in recent months, which included appearances in the FIFA Club World Cup and Copa America. Mascherano questioned why the league would suspend its biggest draw over a non-competitive exhibition game, suggesting rest was justified for the star forward.
“He questioned the logic of suspending the league’s biggest draw when the All-Star Game had no competitive significance.”
—Javier Mascherano, Interim Manager
Messi’s Form and Importance for Inter Miami’s Campaign
Despite the controversy, Messi returns in excellent form, having netted 18 goals and delivered 7 assists during the MLS season so far. His recent scoring streak includes four braces in his last five games, underscoring his vital role as Inter Miami prepares to assert dominance in their opening Leagues Cup fixture against Atlas.
With the suspension behind him, Messi is expected to start and lead the team’s attack in this key continental competition. His presence brings crucial star power and is highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike, who view his participation as essential for Inter Miami’s success on this stage.
Implications of Messi’s Return Amid League Tensions
Lionel Messi Inter Miami return marks a turning point as the club seeks to move past a period of disciplinary conflict that brought uncertainty to their campaign. The situation has spotlighted MLS policies and sparked debate over how superstar players are treated in league protocols.
Looking ahead, this match will test how well Inter Miami integrates its star talent back into competitive play under pressure. It also raises questions about future league rules concerning player participation in non-mandatory events, especially for marquee players whose absence can affect team performance and fan engagement.
The outcome of the Leagues Cup opener could set the tone for Inter Miami’s continental ambitions while signaling Messi’s ongoing impact on American soccer.