Inter Miami CF is expressing significant frustration over the suspension of two pivotal players, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, who will miss an upcoming match due to their absence from the MLS All-Star Game. The club’s co-owner, Jorge Mas, shared his thoughts during a recent news conference, emphasizing the team's united stance amidst the controversy. "Lionel Messi is very upset, like we all are in the club, with the fact that they won’t be able to play tomorrow night. But I think what we have to do as a club is to get together as one, have an attitude that is us against the world," Mas stated.
Inter Miami confirmed that the decision for Messi and Alba to sit out the MLS All-Star Game was not made by the players themselves but was a strategic choice by the club. This decision was made in light of the grueling schedule that saw the team compete in nine matches over just 36 days. "I think that the punishment for the rule is frankly draconian," Mas commented, highlighting the challenges posed by such a tight schedule.
The suspension comes as Inter Miami prepares to face off against FC Cincinnati, currently the top team in the Eastern Conference, on Saturday. Mas acknowledged the disappointment felt by Messi and Alba, stating, "Obviously, it was not a positive reaction from Messi and Alba. They want to compete, they want to play games. That’s what they’re here for — to play and win. They understand the magnitude of tomorrow night’s game."
Looking ahead, Inter Miami made it clear that if they find themselves in the same situation next year, they would opt to rest any player selected for the All-Star Game again, regardless of the implications. This stance reflects the club's commitment to managing player health and performance effectively. Meanwhile, MLS Commissioner Don Garber indicated that the league would reevaluate its policies regarding player participation in the All-Star Game. "I’m committed to working with our players to determine how the rule should evolve," Garber noted, suggesting potential changes in the future.
Despite the absence of Messi and Alba, Inter Miami currently sits fifth in the Eastern Conference, trailing the leaders, Cincinnati, by just six points. The upcoming match is crucial for the team as they strive to close the gap and improve their standing in the league.
