A punishment that doesn’t sit well

Lionel Messi didn’t hold back after Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Atlas in the Leagues Cup. Despite recording two key assists, the Argentine admitted feeling “sluggish” and pointed directly at the MLS for the suspension that kept him out of the last league fixture.

“They didn’t let me play the other day, and I felt it—especially in the first half,” he said. And while many thought skipping a game might help, Messi shut that theory down: “For me, it’s worse because I need to compete. I feel physically better as I play more matches.”

Why was he punished?

The Argentine No. 10 was suspended by MLS after failing to appear at the All-Star Game against Liga MX stars. The league enforces a strict rule: if a selected player skips the match without a valid injury, he must automatically miss the following league fixture.

In Messi’s case, his absence was perceived as a lack of commitment to the event. The decision stirred controversy, especially considering he’s the league’s biggest icon. MLS didn’t budge—and Inter Miami paid the price.

Two assists, but far from his best

Despite his lack of rhythm, Messi was decisive—assisting both Telasco Segovia and Marcelo Weigandt’s goals. Still, his performance didn’t go unnoticed by himself or the coaching staff: slower on takeoffs, less involved, and lacking his usual spark.

On a brighter note, Rodrigo De Paul made his debut and earned Messi’s praise for his hustle and quality. “He gives us a big boost,” Messi said. The duo could become vital moving forward… but only if the No. 10 gets back into his groove.