The Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Game is shaping up to be one of North American soccer’s most anticipated events of the year. As tradition dictates, the league’s biggest stars will take on a selection of top Liga MX players in a night of showmanship and spectacle at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. And while the main draw for this edition is the expected appearance of Lionel Messi, his participation remains up in the air.
The Argentine superstar was officially named to the MLS All-Star squad, and his debut in this kind of showcase seemed imminent. However, warning signs surfaced earlier this week: Messi didn’t train with the rest of the All-Star group and will also skip Tuesday’s Skills Challenge. As the hours go by, uncertainty is growing over whether he’ll take the field for Wednesday night’s clash against Liga MX.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano didn’t hide his position when asked about Messi’s involvement: “I’d like him to rest,” he said in a press conference. While he acknowledged that the decision doesn’t fall entirely on him, he added, “I know how important the All-Star Game is, but as far as I know, the club hasn’t made any formal decision. Everything remains normal.”
A packed fixture list is one of the key reasons for caution. Inter Miami is coming off a stretch of high-intensity matches that have taken a physical toll on several players—including Messi. The coaching staff’s priority is to ensure that their captain is fully fit for the decisive part of the MLS season.
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Past precedent points to possible absence
There’s also recent precedent. Last year, Messi was invited to the All-Star Game, but a minor muscle issue following the Copa América final kept him out. This time, the situation appears to be more preventive than medical, but no final call has been made yet.
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The MLS All-Star Game has become a marquee event on the American soccer calendar. Not only does it showcase the league’s best talent, but it also helps strengthen the competitive bond between MLS and Liga MX, offering fans a night that blends sport, entertainment, and marketing appeal.
