Lionel Messi, handed over a suspension of one game by MLS for skipping the MLS All-Star game, is «extreme upset» about punishment, said Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas Friday.
Messi and Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba were both sanctioned on Friday for the removal of the MLS All-Stars’ 3-1 victory against the Liga MX All-Stars on Wednesday in Austin, Texas. Both players were voted in the showcase by fans and media, but neither could be seen.
Alba and Messi will not be available on Saturday for the Inter Miami match against FC Cincinnati in Fort Lauderdale, FLA.
Long-established competition rules require a suspension of one game for players who miss the All-Star game without permission, but that did not prevent MAS from expressing the dismay of the team about the statement.
Mas said about Messi’s answer: «He is very upset, extremely upset today, as expected. I hope it has no impact in the long term. Will it initially have an impact, in the perception of the players about how the competition rules work? Absolutely, undoubtedly undoubtedly.»
The owner added about Messi and Alba: “They want to compete. They want to play games. That is what they are here: playing and winning. They understand the size of (Saturday) night game. So the reaction was exactly as expected of two competitive players who do not understand the decision, who do not understand why not attending an exhibition match directly.
«The rule is what it is, but they don’t understand. … I think the punishment is frankly draconic.»
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano pointed out on Friday morning that his team «had played the most matches so far, by far» and that Messi showed «normal fatigue of the number of games and minutes he played», per ESPN.
«Look, players always have discomfort, especially when they play every three days. But luckily (Messi) returns today,» said Mascherano.
Messi, 38, shares the MLS lead with 18 goals and this season has 10 assists in 17 league games. The Argentinian attacker also made six starts in the Concacaf Champions Cup and four in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Alba, 36, has one goal and eight assists in 18 ml games. The Spanish defender made seven starts in the Champions Cup and one in the club World Cup.
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