The rules also apply to a soccer world champion in the American league MLS. Lionel Messi was closed for a game after not participating in the All-Star game. The same applies to Jordi Alba, his teammate at Inter Miami.
Messi and Alba were chosen by fans and media in the MLS squad for the game last Wednesday (July 23, 2025) against the selection of the Mexican league MX (3-1). However, both waived participation without a medical justification. Accordingly, the lock for the game against Cincinnati followed on Saturday.
“I know that Lionel Messi loves this league”, said MLS boss Don Garber Blumig. “I don’t think there is a player who is more for them Major League Soccer did as a messi. “ However, the league has guidelines regarding participation in the All-Star game, “which we had to enforce”, So Garber. “It was a very difficult decision.”