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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Amanda Langell

Why Lionel Messi Isn’t Playing in 2025 MLS All-Star Game

Lionel Messi MLS Inter Miami Jordi Alba Javier Mascherano IMAGO Liga MX
Lionel Messi was originally slated as one of the 2025 MLS All-Stars. | IMAGO/Action Plus

The 2025 MLS All-Stars will have to take on Liga MX’s best at Q2 Stadium without Lionel Messi.

MLS confirmed to Sports Illustrated that both Messi and his fellow Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba are no longer on the MLS All-Star roster. The two superstars, who were originally named to the 26-player squad last month, are set to miss out on this year’s clash with the Liga MX All-Stars.

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