Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has voiced concerns over Lionel Messi’s future at the club following a controversial MLS suspension that has left the Argentine superstar “extremely upset.”
Messi, along with teammate Jordi Alba, was hit with a one-match suspension for skipping the MLS All-Star Game, despite both players reportedly needing rest after a grueling run of fixtures. As per Major League Soccer rules, players who miss the All-Star event without official clearance face an automatic suspension — a rule Mas strongly criticizes.
“Obviously, it was not a positive reaction,” Mas told reporters during a press conference. “They want to play. They’re competitors. They don’t understand why missing an exhibition match results in suspension from a crucial regular season game.”
The ban means Messi and Alba will sit out Miami’s match against FC Cincinnati, a key fixture in the Eastern Conference race. According to Mas, the decision was made with player health in mind — not out of disrespect to the league.
“They were coming off a stretch of nine games in 35 days, including tough away matches in Cincinnati and New York,” Mas explained. “Now we’re entering another stretch of 10 matches in 34 days. These are not minor numbers — the rest was necessary.”
Mas admitted that Messi’s disappointment could affect contract talks, as the 36-year-old’s current deal expires at the end of 2025. Talks of an extension have been circulating for months, but the suspension has clouded the picture.
“He’s very upset, extremely upset, as expected,” Mas said. “I’m hopeful it doesn’t impact him long-term. But in the short term, yes — it absolutely changes how players like Messi view the league’s policies.”
Despite the turbulence, Mas stood firmly behind Messi and Alba, saying their choice showed dedication to the club over spectacle.
“There’s no doubt about where their priorities lie. I admire them for always putting the team first.”
As uncertainty swirls around Messi’s next move, this latest drama could play a major role in whether he remains the face of MLS — or considers new horizons.
