Mascherano Criticizes Messi Sanction: Double Standard in MLS?

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano expressed his discontent with the MLS’s decision to suspend Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for Saturday’s match against FC Cincinnati. The sanction was due to the lack of participation of both players in the All-Star Game. According to league rules, any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without prior league approval cannot play in their club’s next match, which forced Messi and Alba to remain off the field.

I have an opinion about what happened, but I didn’t come to criticize MLS or change the rule. We didn’t adapt to what happened, beyond the fact that I don’t agree with the decision, I don’t agree at all, but well, we have adapted.

Javier Mascherano

Mascherano questioned whether the same rule would have been applied if the match had been away. He also pointed out that, although he does not agree with the decision, the team has adapted to the situation.

Now I have a question: What would have happened if today’s match was away? Did that also prevent Leo from playing? Because to fill stadiums and make money, nobody complains, right? The thing is, this game was at home. I leave it to you.

Javier Mascherano

Before the All-Star Game, MLS commissioner Don Garber acknowledged that Inter Miami was suffering the consequences of a tight schedule. However, the league decided to maintain the rule.

What seems strange to me is that one day they say one thing and the next day they make a completely different decision. Because we all heard what was said, which was understandable, given the number of games he had been playing. We didn’t ask for it to be handled differently.

Javier Mascherano

Mascherano’s statements follow those of Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas, who called the decision “draconian” and stated that Messi was “extremely upset.” Despite the absences, Inter Miami achieved a 0-0 draw against FC Cincinnati at Chase Stadium on Saturday night. The team also presented their new signing, Rodrigo De Paul, before the start of the match, welcoming the world champion and Messi’s teammate in Argentina.

The signing of Rodrigo De Paul is clearly another historic signing, a new historic signing for this club. He is a world champion, at his current age, 31 years old, in his prime.

Javier Mascherano

Inter Miami is preparing to debut in the 2025 edition of the Leagues Cup on Wednesday against Atlas from Liga MX.