Why Lionel Messi Will Skip the MLS All-Star Game After His Iconic 2026 World Cup Performance
Lionel Messi, the brightest star in MLS, will not participate in this year’s All-Star game. This comes shortly after his remarkable display in the 2026 World Cup, where he reaffirmed his place as one of soccer's greatest.
Following his World Cup heroics, Messi is set to return to Inter Miami but plans to take an extended break before stepping back onto the pitch. His absence leaves the league without its biggest attraction during one of its marquee events.
Reasons Behind Messi's Absence
Messi earned a spot on his third straight MLS All-Star roster amidst the World Cup, having scored 12 goals and provided eight assists in 14 games that season. Despite the honor, he will miss the event because it falls within the mandatory 21-day rest period granted to players at the end of the season.
Alongside international teammate Rodrigo De Paul, who also plays for Inter Miami, Messi will coordinate with the club to decide when they will resume playing. According to the Sports Business Journal, both Argentine stars will skip at least Inter Miami’s next two fixtures.
Timing of Messi’s Return to Inter Miami
It remains uncertain when Messi will rejoin the team. The current rest period began on Monday, July 20, extending through August 10. If he takes the full allotted time off, he could miss five Inter Miami matches plus the All-Star game.
After resting in Miami, Messi plans to visit his hometown Rosario for a short break before returning to competitive action.
Messi’s Most Recent Match Before the Break
The last time Messi played for Inter Miami was May 24. In that match against the Philadelphia Union, he contributed two assists and fired three shots before leaving in the 73rd minute due to discomfort in his leg. Thankfully, that injury turned out to be minor, allowing him to shine at the World Cup with eight goals and four assists, leading Argentina to the final.
Details of the MLS All-Star Game
The MLS All-Star Game is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29. This year, the best of MLS will face off against top talent from Liga MX. The roster features World Cup stars such as Richie Laryea, Matt Freese, Lucas Herrington, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Son Heung-Min.
About Lionel Messi
At 39 years old, Messi ranks as the sixth-oldest player in MLS, behind veterans like Diego Chara, Hugo Lloris, Luis Suarez, Maxi Moralez, and Alejandro Bedoya.
