Why Lionel Messi Will Not Play in MLS All-Star Game After His Legendary 2026 World Cup Run

Messi to Skip 2026 MLS All-Star Game Following World Cup Brilliance

Lionel Messi stands as the biggest star in MLS, yet he will not participate in this year's All-Star Game. Fresh from a dazzling World Cup performance that cemented his place among football's greatest, Messi plans to return to Inter Miami but only after taking an extended break.

The timing of the All-Star Game conflicts with the mandatory 21-day rest period granted to players at the end of the season, which means Messi will be absent from one of MLS's marquee events. Alongside his international teammate and fellow Inter Miami player Rodrigo De Paul, Messi will coordinate his return with the club, but both will miss at least the next two matches for their team.

Messi’s MLS All-Star Game Status

Despite being named to his third straight MLS All-Star roster during the World Cup—where he notched 12 goals and eight assists in 14 appearances—Messi will not take part in the showcase. His absence is tied directly to the league's regulations on player rest following the demanding World Cup schedule.

De Paul shares a similar timeline, planning to work with Inter Miami on his comeback while respecting the rest window. The Sports Business Journal reports that neither Argentine international will play in the immediate upcoming fixtures.

When Will Messi Return to Inter Miami?

Messi’s exact return date remains uncertain. He is expected to miss a minimum of two club games plus the All-Star Game. After the match, he will head to Miami before taking a brief trip back to his hometown of Rosario.

The rest period began on Monday, July 20, and extends through August 10. If Messi uses the full allotted time off, he would miss five matches for Inter Miami, not counting the All-Star event.

Messi’s Most Recent Appearance

Messi last played for Inter Miami on May 24. In that game against Philadelphia Union, he contributed two assists and three shots before exiting in the 73rd minute due to discomfort in the back of his leg.

This precautionary substitution turned out to be nothing serious, as Messi went on to deliver an outstanding World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals and providing four assists, guiding Argentina to the final.

Details on the MLS All-Star Game

The All-Star Game is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, featuring top MLS talents facing off against the best from Liga MX.

The squad includes notable World Cup stars such as Richie Laryea, Matt Freese, Lucas Herrington, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Son Heung-Min, all under Dean Smith's leadership.

Messi’s Age and MLS Standing

At 39 years old, Messi ranks as the sixth-oldest player in MLS. Only Diego Chara, Hugo Lloris, Luis Suarez, Maxi Moralez, and Alejandro Bedoya are older.