Inter Miami was held at a 0-0 draw by the FC Cincinnati on July 27 in a game known not for the result, but for the absence of its biggest star: Lionel Messi. The Argentine legend, together with teammate Jordi Alba, was suspended for a game after having not been able to participate in the All-Star MLS match, unleashing criticism from the club’s officers and the coach head Javier Mascherano.
According to the rules of the League, any player who jumps the All-Star match without prior approval is subject to an automatic ban on a game. This rule has put Messi and Alba aside, despite the list of Miami’s congested meetings and the recent problems of Alba’s injury.
Speaking after the game, Mascherano did not hold back. “I don’t want to criticize MLS or ask for changes in the rules, but I don’t completely agree with this decision”, He said, adding, “We are forced to adapt, even if it is absurd.”
Further questioned the reasons of the League, “If this game had been a away game, would you still have been suspended? When filling the stadiums and leads the revenue, nobody complains.”
The co -owner of the club Jorge Mas also labeled the suspension as “harsh”, revealing that Messi was “very upset” for being excluded from playing. The decision fueled the accusations according to which the championship gives priority to the profits and star apparitions with respect to the treatment and programming of the fair player.
In the meantime, despite having lost two of their main players, Inter Miami managed to hold Cincinnati and revealed Rodrigo De Paul, a dear friend and teammate of Messi under the Argentine national team.
Mascherano praised the signature, affirming, “De Paul is a historical addition. At 31, he is still at his peak. His arrival shows the ambition of our club to increase his competitiveness and global stature.”
On the other hand, Inter Miami’s next challenge presents himself in the form of The League Cup 2025where they will face the Mexican Atlas on July 31st.
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