Messi Sits Out 2025 MLS All-Star Game After Exhausting Run

Lionel Messi will not play in the 2025 MLS All-Star Game. He needs rest after playing five full matches since the Club World Cup. Messi’s absence upsets fans and the league, but he has had a tiring schedule lately.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Just hours before the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, the final roster was changed. Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were removed. Messi needed a break after five straight 90-minute matches since returning from the Club World Cup. Fatigue and injury risk are concerns. Inter Miami prioritized his health, as Messi is key to their league run. The MLS All-Stars played Liga MX without their star, disappointing fans worldwide. The match continued with some standout performances, but Messi’s absence was felt across the league.

RECENT FORM AND TEAM SITUATION

Messi has been impressive for Inter Miami in the 2025 season. He is tied with Nashville’s Sam Surridge for the top scorer in MLS, with 18 goals. Inter Miami is currently sixth in the Eastern Conference, one point above Philadelphia Union below them and three points behind Columbus Crew on top. The team faces important matches ahead, and Messi’s fitness will be vital as they aim to secure a playoff spot in the MLS.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

The focus now shifts to Inter Miami’s next league game, a key away match against FC Cincinnati. Cincinnati are fifth in the Eastern Conference, just four points behind Miami. Miami need Messi rested and available. The league will watch for MLS rulings, as missing the All-Star Game can lead to suspensions without a documented injury. This happened to Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2018. Messi and Inter Miami will work with league officials to avoid disciplinary action and keep Messi fit for the demanding season finale.