ESPN: Lionel Messi to miss next two Inter Miami MLS games, All-Star Game

Published Jul 20, 11:25 PM UTC

According to an ESPN report, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul will miss the club's next two MLS games against Chicago Fire and CF Montreal, as well as the MLS All-Star Game on July 29. Both players featured in all eight matches for Argentina during the 2026 World Cup, with Messi playing the full 120 minutes in the final loss to Spain. The absences are reportedly related to rest recommendations from FIFPRO, which suggests a 21-day rest period post-season. Messi previously skipped the 2025 All-Star Game without league approval, resulting in a suspension. Inter Miami, currently second in the Eastern Conference with a 9-2-4 record, will also be without the duo for potential Leagues Cup matches and additional MLS games within the 21-day window. Messi finished second in the World Cup Golden Boot race with eight goals and four assists.