MLS Players Face Absences Due To International Tournaments

Philadelphia Union's Daniel Gazdag, center, celebrates after his penalty kick for a goal with Alejandro Bedoya, left, and Olivier Mbaizo, right, during the second half of an MLS soccer match against C

Lionel Messi could miss up to six games with Inter Miami if Argentina advances to the Copa America final. Messi, with 12 goals and 13 assists, has been instrumental in Miami's success in Major League Soccer's Eastern Conference. His absence raises concerns about Miami's performance during the tournament, which commences on Thursday.

Inter Miami will also be without Luis Suarez, representing Uruguay, and Matias Rojas, playing for Paraguay. Additionally, rising star Benjamin Cremaschi is expected to join the U.S. Olympic team. Suarez and Messi have collectively scored 24 of Miami's 44 goals this season.

Thirty-nine Major League Soccer players, along with one from MLS NEXT Pro, have been called up by their national teams for the Copa America. This situation presents opportunities for other players to step up, as mentioned by various coaches.

Thirty-nine MLS players called up for Copa America, impacting team rosters.

Key Inter Miami players like Messi and Suarez could miss games.

Inter Miami's success in MLS may be affected by player absences during Copa America.

Coaches emphasize the need for other players to step up in the absence of key players.

The Copa America, hosted by the United States for the second time, will feature 16 teams from South and North America from June 20 to July 14. The tournament showcases MLS players' growing presence in Latin America, although some national teams like Mexico and Brazil did not select any MLS players.

MLS players are also participating in the European Championship, Olympics, and the upcoming Leagues Cup, contributing to a congested schedule. Despite potential challenges, coaches emphasize making the most of the situation and encouraging players to perform at their best.

With various competitions ongoing, the impact on MLS attendance and viewership remains to be seen. Broadcasts on platforms like Apple TV and FOX Sports will provide coverage of MLS, Copa America, and European Championship matches in the United States.

Inter Miami's Julian Gressel urges players to step up in the absence of key players and maintain the team's momentum. Gressel emphasizes the team's goal of securing the top spot in the Supporters Shield standings, highlighting the collective effort required for success.

For more Copa America coverage, visit: AP Copa America coverage.