Why Lionel Messi Faces Ban Amid Reports That He Broke Strict MLS Protocol
- Lionel Messi could face suspension after skipping the MLS All-Star Game, in line with rules that previously punished Zlatan Ibrahimovic
- The Argentine superstar was yet to train with the MLS All-Stars squad or attend official events, raising concerns about his availability
- MLS officials were keen for Messi to play, with coach Nico Estevez hoping to work with the 'greatest of all time', which did not happen
Lionel Messi could face a potential one-game suspension from MLS amid reports that he breached a key league rule that Zlatan Ibrahimovic once also fell foul of.
The Argentine World Cup winner had not yet trained with the MLS All-Stars ahead of their showdown against the Liga MX All-Stars, which took place on July 24.
Source: Getty Images
The 38-year-old’s last appearance came during Inter Miami’s dominant 5-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls on July 20.
He netted a brace in that game, which was the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner’s sixth multi-goal game in his last seven matches.
Per Fox Sports, the 2022 World Cup winner became the fifth player in MLS history to record at least 35 goals and 25 assists over a two-year span, joining Robbie Keane (2013-14), Sebastian Giovinco (2015-16), Carlos Vela (2018-19), and Cucho Hernandez (2023-24).
Why Lionel Messi is facing MLS ban
Although 26 players, including the likes of Hirving Lozano and Diego Rossi have been called up for the All-Star squad, the Argentine maestro’s presence is a top priority for MLS executives keen on maximising global attention.
However, if Messi fails to play in the All-Star match without a valid excuse, MLS rules state he would be forced to miss Inter Miami’s next fixture.
Per Mundo Albiceleste, MLS All-Stars head coach Nico Estevez addressed the star's absence from training and other events including the Skills Challenge and All-Star Media Day.
“I don’t know. That question should be asked to the MLS officials. I just coach the players they give me. Of course, I’d love for him to play. It would be a pleasure to work, even if just for a short time, with the greatest of all time.”
Source: Getty Images
What happened with Zlatan Ibrahimovic in MLS?
Looking at a similar situation, back in 2018, Swedish legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic skipped the MLS All-Star game while at LA Galaxy, citing a congested fixture schedule and travel fatigue.
Despite scoring 15 goals in 17 games, the AC Milan icon chose to prioritise his club duties over the All-Star event.
“I am disappointed to miss the 2018 All-Star game against Juventus, one of my former clubs,” Zlatan said via ESPN. “I want to thank the fans for voting me to the team. My main focus is to score goals and help the LA Galaxy to the playoffs.”
As a result, the Swede was suspended for LA Galaxy’s next match against Colorado Rapids, in line with the same MLS rule now looming over Messi.
Meanwhile, MLS All-Stars defeated Liga MX All-Stars in their clash, with Sam Sturridge, Tai Baribo, and Brian White scoring for the US team, and 16-year-old Gilberto Mora scoring for the Mexican team, per Yahoo Sports.
Why Messi wants to quit Inter Miami
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Messi could leave Inter Miami on loan next season as part of his build-up to the 2026 World Cup.
The 38-year-old's current contract is set to expire at the end of this year, but the club remained eager to extend his stay beyond 2025.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
