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Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba did not take part in the MLS All-Star Game against Liga MX in Austin, Texas, an absence that could see both players suspended.
The MLS side defeated Liga MX 3–1, securing their third win over the Mexican league in four encounters.
Nearly eight hours before kick-off, MLS released an updated squad list that excluded both players. Neither Messi nor Alba provided a public explanation for their absence.
Under league rules, players who are not injured and fail to appear in the All-Star Game without a valid justification face an automatic one-match suspension. If enforced, Messi could miss Inter Miami’s fixture against FC Cincinnati this weekend.
The absence sparked backlash from fans. “Shame on Lionel Messi for choosing not to play in the MLS All-Star Game Wednesday night,” wrote one user on X. “The league’s biggest star choosing not to play is an insult to MLS fans who bought tickets,” said another.
