Lionel Messi’s absence from the MLS All-Star Game raised questions about his health, but Inter Miami FC coach Javier Mascherano has put those concerns to rest. Messi was selected for the game but didn’t travel and missed the event along with Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba. “Well, Messi showed normal fatigue from the number of games and minutes he's been playing," Mascherano said to ESPN.
Is Lionel Messi Injured? Mascherano Breaks Silence After Missing All-Star Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Lionel Messi’s absence from the MLS All-Star Game raised questions about his health, but Inter Miami FC coach Javier Mascherano has put those concerns to rest.
Messi was selected for the game but didn’t travel and missed the event along with Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba. That sparked speculation about an injury.
“Well, Messi showed normal fatigue from the number of games and minutes he's been playing," Mascherano said to ESPN.
Related: MLS Chief Breaks Silence on Messi’s Suspension As All-Star Absence Sparks Drama
Messi’s Absence Was About Rest, Not an Injury
Mascherano’s comments come as Messi is managing a heavy schedule. The 37-year-old played four games at the FIFA Club World Cup and has been playing in MLS, all in a short span. With that kind of load, Inter Miami staff has decided to rest him.
"Look, players always have discomfort, especially when they play every three days. But luckily, he is returning today. Let's hope he can train alongside the group so we can count on both of them for tomorrow's game. We haven't received any [sanction ,]" says Mascherano.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber also acknowledged the situation, saying the league understands the physical toll on top players like Messi. While skipping the All-Star Game can result in a one-game suspension, there’s no indication of that happening in this case.
This isn’t the first time Inter Miami has chosen to err on the side of caution. In March, Messi was rested for a road game in Houston. Mascherano said then (and now) that it was about avoiding injury, not treating one.
Since Messi is not listed with an injury with Inter Miami, he will return to action after a short rest to recover from the minor discomfort that kept him out of the All-Star game.
Related: “Not Healthy” – Lionel Messi Urged to Quit MLS Immediately for One Reason
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
