Inter Miami announced that Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez will not be playing in the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday. Messi is injured with an ankle problem, and Suárez has knee pain. Their chances of playing in the upcoming League’s Cup match will depend on how they recover over the next few days.
Messi’s injury occurred during Argentina’s recent Copa América final against Colombia, where he left the game in the 66th minute with what has been described as a ligament issue in his right ankle. This injury occurred without any direct contact, leading to his substitution during the match.
Suárez, who has been playing extensively for Uruguay in the Copa América, might be missing the All-Star Game as a precautionary measure due to his knee discomfort. He had a busy summer and recently played the full match in Inter Miami’s win over Chicago Fire FC.
The absence of Messi and Suárez is a significant setback for the MLS All-Star Game, which features top players from the league facing off against a select team from Liga MX. Both players are among the most prominent figures in the league, with Messi having scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists in 12 appearances, and Suárez contributing 12 goals and five assists in 18 matches.
The news is particularly disappointing for fans in Columbus, Ohio, who were looking forward to seeing these star players. Inter Miami’s only planned visit to Lower.com Field this season was before Messi and Suárez joined the team, making this All-Star Game their only opportunity to see the pair in action in Central Ohio for the year.