Messi and Alba to miss MLS All-Star Game

Lionel Messi, along with Inter Miami team-mate Jordi Alba, will not play in the MLS All-Star Game against the best of Liga MX in Austin on Wednesday.

The Miami players were included in the roster when it was initially announced in June, with both included for the second year running.

However, Messi also missed last year’s exhibition game against the Liga MX All-Stars, though in that instance it was due to an ankle injury.

He and Alba, who withdrew from the skills challenge on Tuesday, missed training earlier in the week, and it has been confirmed that neither will participate at Q2 Stadium in the updated MLS All-Stars roster, hours before kick-off.

Taking the stage in Austin, TX. #MLSAllStar matchday has arrived — watch at 9pm ET for free on @AppleTV! https://t.co/9dZ4zkS2I2 pic.twitter.com/eyXvUhf8pN

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 23, 2025

Miami head coach Javier Mascherano had voiced his concern over his players’ involvement in the event, emphasising their need for rest.

League rules state that any player who chooses not to participate in the All-Stars game without an approved medical reason can be subject to a one-match suspension, though the sanction will not be immediately applied to Messi or Alba.

Wednesday’s All-Star Game is the 29th iteration of the event, and the fourth against the Mexican league’s top players.

Sergio Ramos will captain the Liga MX All-Stars, while FC Cincinnati’s Evander has been given the armband for the MLS side.