Overview

• MLS enforced its regulation by suspending Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for one match following their unauthorized absence from the All-Star Game.
• Both players were sidelined as Inter Miami played out a 0-0 draw with Eastern Conference leader FC Cincinnati on July 27.
• Commissioner Don Garber called the decision “very difficult” and confirmed that MLS will reexamine its All-Star participation policy.
• Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas said Messi is “very angry” over the suspension and warned it could influence his perception of league rules.
• The episode highlights tensions between managing marquee players’ heavy match loads and meeting the league’s promotional demands for its midseason showcase.