News Summary
Lionel Messi faces a one-game suspension alongside Jordi Alba, impacting Inter Miami ahead of the 2025 Leagues Cup. The team starts its campaign on July 30, with additional focus on a Messi-centric viewing experience for fans via TikTok Live. Despite the suspension, excitement remains around Messi’s MLS presence, especially with new signing Rodrigo De Paul. The recent match ended in a 0-0 draw, prompting criticism of the MLS suspension policy from Inter Miami’s coach. As the league reviews its policies, the future of Messi in American soccer continues to spark speculation.
Miami, Florida – The world of soccer is buzzing with excitement and controversy as Lionel Messi faces a suspension while Inter Miami gears up for the forthcoming 2025 Leagues Cup. Messi, a pivotal figure for Inter Miami and Major League Soccer (MLS), is currently sidelined due to a one-game suspension along with teammate Jordi Alba for not participating in the MLS All-Star Game.
The suspension has drawn ire from both players and Inter Miami’s management. Messi, who has recorded 18 goals and nine assists this season, expressed his discontent over the situation, voicing concerns through Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas. MLS commissioner Don Garber addressed the matter, stating that the decision to enforce the suspension, although complex, was necessary in accordance with league policies.
Inter Miami will start their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign on July 30 against Atlas, but fans can expect a Messi-focused viewing experience starting August 2 during a match against Necaxa. The league has reinstated a broadcast feature known as “Player Spotlight: Messi,” which allows viewers an exclusive Messi-only viewing experience on TikTok LIVE. This feature had significant success previously, attracting over six million live viewers during its first edition, marking a record for live sports streaming on TikTok in the U.S.
Fans should note that the Messi stream will be accessible via the MLS TikTok account, with additional coverage available on other platforms including Inter Miami’s channels and Apple TV. This revamped feature is set to cover at least four more matches later in the season, details of which are forthcoming.
Adding to the intrigue, Inter Miami has recently announced the signing of World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul. However, De Paul has not been included on the team’s Leagues Cup roster, raising questions about when he will make his debut. Messi and De Paul have been seen engaging with fans during matches, fostering a sense of camaraderie despite the ongoing drama of Messi’s suspension.
Inter Miami’s recent match against FC Cincinnati was affected by Messi and Alba’s suspension, resulting in a disappointing 0-0 draw. Coach Javier Mascherano has openly criticized MLS for their suspension policy, raising concerns regarding its application and the potential implications for the team’s competitiveness during a grueling schedule of nine games in just 36 days.
Despite the obstacles, the excitement around Messi’s presence in the MLS continues to grow, particularly with the prospect of rekindling his rivalry with Sergio Ramos, who has also joined the league. Messi’s contract with Inter Miami is set to expire at the end of the current season, adding another layer of speculation regarding his future in American soccer.
As the league moves ahead, it is reviewing its policies concerning player suspensions, responding to the significant concerns raised by Inter Miami’s management and coaching staff. The outcomes of these discussions may have lasting impacts on how the league operates and treats its star players moving forward.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Inter Miami Held to Scoreless Draw Against FC Cincinnati
MLS Suspends Messi and Alba for All-Star Game Absence
MLS All-Stars Defeat Liga MX with 3-1 Win
Brandon Vazquez Out for Season with Knee Injury
Additional Resources
- Palm Beach Post
- Wikipedia: Lionel Messi
- New York Post
- Google Search: Lionel Messi suspension
- ESPN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lionel Messi
- New York Times
- Google News: Inter Miami
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
