Overview

• Messi and Alba resumed play for Inter Miami following one-match bans imposed for skipping the MLS All-Star Game without prior approval.
• Inter Miami held FC Cincinnati to a 0-0 draw as coach Javier Mascherano praised the enforced rest as beneficial ahead of the Leagues Cup.
• Commissioner Don Garber defended enforcing the long-standing participation policy but acknowledged the decision exposed inconsistencies in league governance.
• Critics from ownership to pundits have called the suspension draconian, arguing it underscores the strain of a congested schedule on player welfare.
• Messi is poised to face Liga MX side Atlas in Wednesday’s Leagues Cup opener, marking his first match since serving the ban.