MLS metes out punishment to Messi and Alba for missing the All-Star Game

Inter Miami were quietly optimistic about being able to count on Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for this weekend’s crucial clash with Cincinnati, but in the end the Fort Lauderdale team has been dealt a painful blow. Both players will sit out the same, as punishment for missing the recent All-Star Game which they were both called up to play.

Messi and Jordi Alba handed one-match bans

In a statement, MLS announced that due to their absence from the MLS All-Star Game and in accordance with the rules, both Messi and Jordi Alba must serve a one-match suspension.

“Per league rules, any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without prior approval from the league is ineligible to compete in their club’s next match,” the statement read.

Earlier on Friday, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano revealed that the franchise had not been notified about the sanction. Just a few hours later, the punishment was officially confirmed by MLS.

Don Garber regrets Messi’s sanction, but he abides by the rules

In the same statement, MLS Commissioner Don Garber shared his reasons for imposing the sanction on the Inter Miami players.

“I know Messi loves this league. I don’t think there’s a player, or anyone, who has done more for Major League Soccer than Messi. I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision. Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game, and we had to enforce it. It was a very difficult decision,” he explained. “We’re going to take a hard look at the policy moving forward,” he said. “I’m committed to working with our players to determine how the rule should evolve.”

Being without the captain for Saturday’s game against the Eastern Conference leaders is a huge blow for Miami. Mascherano’s team are currently fifth in the table with 41 points - seven points behind Cincinnati, having played three games less due to the team’s participation in this summer’s Club World Cup.