The intense atmosphere at an Inter Miami match amidst player suspensions.
Miami, FL, July 28, 2025
Lionel Messi has received a one-game suspension for not participating in the MLS All-Star Game. This decision has raised concerns among Inter Miami’s fans and management as the team gears up for the upcoming Leagues Cup. Messi’s absence comes with heightened anticipation surrounding the return of the ‘Player Spotlight: Messi’ on TikTok, drawing millions of viewers. Additionally, Inter Miami made a new signing with Rodrigo De Paul, though he is not listed for the tournament. As Messi’s contract nears expiration, fans are eager to see how the situation unfolds.
Miami, FL – Lionel Messi’s status has become a contentious topic as he faces a one-game suspension while Inter Miami prepares for the upcoming Leagues Cup. The suspension, which he received for not participating in the MLS All-Star Game alongside teammate Jordi Alba, has sparked discontent among fans and the team’s management.
Messi’s absence from the field comes as Inter Miami aims to build on the growing interest in Major League Soccer (MLS) since his arrival. In a bid to enhance fan engagement, MLS has reintroduced the “Player Spotlight: Messi” feature for the Leagues Cup matches, allowing fans to watch Messi exclusively on TikTok LIVE. The first edition attracted over six million live viewers, setting a record for live sports streaming on TikTok in the U.S. This feature will be available starting August 2 during a match against Necaxa, extending to at least four additional matches.
As Messi’s suspension unfolds, the club has recently signed World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul. However, De Paul is not listed for the Leagues Cup, raising questions about when he might make his debut. Meanwhile, Messi’s long-standing rivalry with Sergio Ramos, who also plays in the MLS, could rekindle as both compete for their teams in 2025.
Inter Miami is set to kick off their 2025 Leagues Cup on July 30 against Atlas. During Messi’s suspension, the team faced FC Cincinnati without their star player and ended the match in a scoreless draw. Messi has had an impressive season thus far, contributing 18 goals and nine assists. Yet, his frustrations over the suspension have been communicated through Inter Miami’s co-owner.
The decision to suspend Messi has been described as complicated but ultimately necessary under current league policy, as emphasized by MLS Commissioner Don Garber. Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, criticized the MLS for this policy, questioning its application and impact on players.
Inter Miami attributed Messi and Alba’s absence from the All-Star Game to their congested schedule, which encompasses nine games in just 36 days. The league is currently reviewing the policies that led to the suspension in response to the concerns expressed by Inter Miami’s management and coaching staff.
As the season progresses, fans look to the return of Messi and his potential collaboration with De Paul, contributing to the spirit and excitement surrounding MLS. With Messi’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, the ongoing situation will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
Since Messi joined Inter Miami, the club has experienced a noticeable boost in fan interest and attendance. The reintroduction of special broadcast features, such as the exclusive Messi stream, signifies the league’s attempt to capitalize on his popularity. The debate over the suspension illustrates ongoing discussions about player management and league policies.
Lionel Messi was suspended for one game due to his absence from the MLS All-Star Game, a decision that also involved teammate Jordi Alba.
Messi is expected to return for Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Necaxa on August 2.
The feature recorded over six million live viewers, setting a record for live sports streaming on TikTok in the U.S.
Rodrigo De Paul was recently signed by Inter Miami but is not included in the roster for the Leagues Cup matches.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspension | One-game suspension for not participating in MLS All-Star Game. |
| Upcoming Matches | Leagues Cup begins on July 30 against Atlas; Messi returns on August 2. |
| Player Spotlight: Messi | Exclusive viewing experience on TikTok with over six million viewers recorded. |
| New Signing | Rodrigo De Paul signed by Inter Miami, not on Leagues Cup roster. |
| Rivalry | Potential rivalry with Sergio Ramos in the 2025 season. |
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