While soccer fans around the world were hoping to see Lionel Messi in action for the MLS All-Stars, it seems like the Inter Miami skipper had different plans. According to MLS officials, Messi has confirmed his absence from the game,

Inter Miami officially announced the signing of Rodrigo De Paul, who will now join Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer. This Friday, Inter Miami confirmed the acquisition of Rodrigo De Paul, who left Atletico Madrid to reunite with Lionel Messi and begin his journey in American soccer.

The Lionel Messi chapter in the MLS seems to have a sub-plot twist that we never saw coming. What looked like a soccer fairytale being woven even just a week ago now seems to be a relationship that is cracking.

Lionel Messi is the most decorated footballer in the history. The 2024 Copa America was his 45th trophy he has lifted in his glittering career at senior level.

This article was originally published on www.si.com as MLS Confirm Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba Ban Decision After All-Star Snub. Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been handed one-match suspensions after their absence from Wednesday night's All-Star game.

Lionel Messi shirts dotted the concourse at Austin's Q2 Stadium for the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, but there was no Messi jersey on the pitch.

Before Argentina’s quarter-final against Uruguay, the stadium announcer roared into the microphone, “No 10…the best player in the world…Lionel Messi!”. The reaction was lukewarm.

Joan Laporta admits that a tribute for Lionel Messi at the new Camp Nou has "already been discussed" by Barcelona and the Argentine's representatives.