Why Lionel Messi Will Skip the MLS All-Star Game Following His Iconic 2026 World Cup Run
Lionel Messi, the biggest name in MLS, will not be participating in this year’s All-Star game. After delivering a stunning performance at the 2026 World Cup, Messi is set to return to Inter Miami but plans to take an extended break before stepping back onto the pitch. This means the league will be without its brightest star during one of its most celebrated events.
Reasons Behind Messi’s Absence
Messi earned a spot in his third straight MLS All-Star game while still competing in the World Cup, having scored 12 goals and provided eight assists over 14 matches. Despite this recognition, he will miss the All-Star event due to the mandatory 21-day rest period that players receive after the season ends.
Along with international teammate Rodrigo De Paul, who also plays for Inter Miami, Messi plans to coordinate with the club on when they’ll resume play. Both are expected to miss at least two upcoming Inter Miami matches, according to Sports Business Journal.
When Could Messi Return?
It remains unclear exactly when Messi will rejoin Inter Miami. The rest period began on Monday, July 20, allowing players up to 21 days off until August 10. If Messi uses the full allotment, he could miss five club games in addition to skipping the All-Star match.
Following his time in Miami, he intends to visit his hometown of Rosario for a short break before returning to action.
Messi’s Last Appearance for Inter Miami
The last time Messi took the field for Inter Miami was on May 24. In that match against Philadelphia Union, he contributed two assists and had three shots before leaving in the 73rd minute due to a precautionary injury check after grabbing the back of his leg.
This worry proved unnecessary as Messi was fully fit throughout the World Cup, scoring eight goals and assisting four times, leading Argentina all the way to the final.
Details on the MLS All-Star Game
The MLS All-Star Game is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, featuring top MLS talent against the best from Liga MX. Players like Richie Laryea, Matt Freese, Lucas Herrington, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Son Heung-Min will represent the MLS side under coach Dean Smith.
About Lionel Messi
At 39 years old, Messi ranks as the sixth-oldest player in MLS, with only Diego Chara, Hugo Lloris, Luis Suarez, Maxi Moralez, and Alejandro Bedoya older. Despite his age, his impact remains immense, and his World Cup exit does not tarnish his legendary status.
