Ankle Injury Forces Messi Out Of MLS All-Star Showcase Event Vs LIGA MX

July 22, (THEWILL) – In a significant setback for Major League Soccer (MLS), Lionel Messi, the Argentine football icon, has been ruled out of the upcoming MLS All-Star Game. The League announced on Monday, that the 37-year-old Inter Miami star would not participate in the highly anticipated match, scheduled for Wednesday in Columbus, Ohio.

The news comes just over a week after Messi suffered an ankle injury during the Copa America final, raising concerns about his fitness. The absence of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is a blow to fans, who were eagerly anticipating his MLS All-Star Game debut, following his high-profile move to Inter Miami in July 2023.

Despite his limited time in the league, Messi has already made an indelible mark on MLS. In the 2024 season alone, he has notched an impressive 12 goals and provided 13 assists in just 12 games for Inter Miami. This remarkable tally of 25 goal contributions is the fastest achieved in MLS history, underscoring the transformative impact Messi continues to have on American football.

The MLS All-Star Game, set to kick off at midnight on July 23, will feature top talents from 18 MLS clubs facing off against the best players from Mexico’s LIGA MX. While Messi’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, the match still promises to be a showcase of the burgeoning talent in North American football.

Although Messi will be away for a while, his swift return to form will be crucial for Inter Miami’s campaign and the continued growth of MLS’s global profile. Meanwhile, the league will be hoping that the All-Star Game can still capture the imagination of football fans worldwide, even without its brightest star.