Lionel Messi risks MLS ban after failing to turn up for training

Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi is facing a possible suspension in the MLS

Lionel Messi is once again at the centre of the storm, although this time, it's not because of a dazzling free-kick or a gravity-defying dribble.

Instead, the Inter Miami star is under scrutiny for missing training ahead of the highly publicised MLS All-Star Game against Liga MX All-Stars, scheduled for July 24, and it might just cost him a suspension.

A no-show that could cost Messi dearly

The MLS All-Star Game is one of the most anticipated events on the league calendar, a showcase meant to promote the sport and its biggest talents across North America.

Messi, who recently set a record by scoring two or more goals in five straight MLS matches, was expected to headline this year’s edition. Instead, his name has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

Despite being named in the All-Star squad alongside the likes of Jordi Alba, Diego Rossi, and Hirving Lozano, Messi has yet to report for team training or participate in any of the All-Star festivities, including the popular Skills Challenge and Media Day events.

Under current MLS regulations, players who skip the All-Star Game without a valid excuse can face a mandatory one-game suspension for their club. Zlatan Ibrahimovic famously triggered this exact rule in 2018 and was banned from LA Galaxy's following league fixture.

Organisers are reportedly desperate to have the Argentine feature in at least some capacity. His presence is considered essential, not just for sporting reasons, but for marketing and fan engagement, especially as the league continues to build global interest around its marquee players.

Mascherano and Inter Miami torn between club goals and All-Star obligations

While fans may be disappointed at Messi's potential no-show, those inside Inter Miami’s camp seem to understand his situation.

Head coach Javier Mascherano, himself a former teammate of Messi’s at Barcelona and with the Argentine national team, struck a sympathetic tone when addressing the controversy.

“The players are called up. I’d prefer they rest, but it’s not my decision,” Mascherano said, adding, “I know how important the All-Star Game is, and as far as I know, there’s no decision from the club, everything continues as normal.”

And there’s a reason for Mascherano’s concern. Inter Miami is entering what may be the most gruelling stretch of their campaign. After a deep run in the Club World Cup and a demanding MLS calendar, the team is now preparing for the League Cup, all while trying to maintain their top-five position in the Eastern Conference.

With Rodrigo De Paul expected to arrive soon, the club is pushing to make a serious bid in multiple competitions and can ill afford to lose its talisman, even temporarily, to an exhibition match.