Lionel Messi Exempt from MLS All-Star Game Following World Cup

Kuwait City, Kuwait Jul 27, 2026 ALN: Lionel Messi will not be required to play in next week’s Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Game after representing Argentina in the recent World Cup final, as confirmed by the US domestic league on Saturday. Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami, had previously faced sanctions for skipping the annual showcase event, which pits top players from across the MLS against rivals from the Mexican Liga-MX.

Participation in the All-Star Game is typically mandatory for players, with exceptions made only in cases of injury. However, due to the unique scheduling of the World Cup, which occurred during the MLS season, the league implemented a temporary pause of seven weeks. This pause allowed for necessary adjustments to accommodate players who progressed to the later stages of the international tournament.

The league's statement elaborated on this arrangement, noting, "Prior to the start of the 2026 season, Major League Soccer and the MLS Players Association agreed that upon a player’s exit from the World Cup competition, clubs would have individual conversations with each player to determine the appropriate rest and return to training and competition timeline." This proactive approach aims to prioritize player welfare, especially for those who have undergone the physical and mental rigors of competing at the highest level in international football.

As a result of this agreement, both Lionel Messi and fellow Argentine Rodrigo De Paul, who also played in the World Cup final, will be excused from participating in the upcoming MLS All-Star Game. The final, which took place in New Jersey, saw Argentina suffer a narrow defeat of 1-0 against Spain after extra time, marking a disappointing end to their World Cup campaign.

Messi was initially named among the first eleven players selected for the MLS squad for this year's All-Star Game, which is scheduled to take place in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday. With Messi's absence, the All-Star roster will still feature notable stars including Son Heung-min from Los Angeles FC, Thomas Muller from the Vancouver Whitecaps, and US national team captain Tim Ream, who plays for the Charlotte FC.

Last year, Messi and his then-Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba faced a one-game suspension for opting out of the All-Star Game at the last minute. At that time, MLS Commissioner Don Garber expressed understanding for Messi's demanding schedule, calling it a "very difficult decision" and indicating that the league's longstanding All-Star Game policy would be under review. This incident highlighted the increasing pressure on players to balance club commitments with international obligations, especially during a packed football calendar.

Inter Miami's billionaire co-owner Jorge Mas revealed that Messi was "very upset" by the prior suspension, underscoring the emotional toll that such decisions can take on players. The situation surrounding Messi's participation in the All-Star Game has drawn attention to the broader implications of player management and the need for leagues to adapt to the evolving landscape of international football.

In the meantime, Inter Miami secured a 1-0 victory over Montreal on Saturday, with Casemiro making his Major League Soccer debut. Luis Suarez, who converted a penalty in the 81st minute of the match, played a crucial role in the victory. This match was overshadowed by a serious injury suffered by Miami’s Mexico international German Berterame, who was involved in a sickening clash of heads that left him motionless on the pitch. Players from both teams immediately signaled for medical assistance, and after a lengthy delay, Berterame was taken from the field in an ambulance.

Following the match, Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos provided an update on Berterame's condition, stating that he was "OK and conscious" and that his family had been informed of the situation. The incident underscored the risks associated with contact sports and the importance of player safety. Suarez, in a show of solidarity, held up Berterame’s jersey after scoring, emphasizing the camaraderie that exists among players even amidst competitive rivalries.

Casemiro, a seasoned midfielder with 91 caps for Brazil and five Champions League titles to his name, made his first appearance for Miami since joining the team from Manchester United. Throughout the match, he demonstrated his ability to control the tempo of play, although both teams struggled with finishing opportunities. Messi and De Paul, both of whom missed a second consecutive game following Argentina’s World Cup final defeat, were notable absences in a match that showcased the challenges teams face in adapting to player availability.

Since the resumption of the MLS season following the World Cup break, Miami has won both of their matches, extending their winning streak to six games. They currently sit just two points behind Eastern Conference leaders Nashville, who suffered a defeat to Orlando City. Meanwhile, Chicago Fire, who were recently beaten by Miami, faced a 3-1 loss against New York City FC, leaving star striker Robert Lewandowski still in search of his first victory since signing from Barcelona.

The recent developments surrounding Messi and the MLS All-Star Game reflect the ongoing evolution of football in North America, particularly as the league continues to attract international stars and navigate the complexities of scheduling around major tournaments. The league's commitment to player welfare, as evidenced by the exceptions made for World Cup participants, indicates a recognition of the need to balance competitive integrity with the realities of modern football.

As the MLS prepares for the All-Star Game, the absence of Messi will undoubtedly be felt, but it also opens up opportunities for other players to shine on a prominent stage. The league's ability to adapt to the changing landscape of international football will be crucial as it seeks to grow its profile and continue attracting top talent from around the globe.