Major League Soccer has handed down one-match bans to Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba following their failure to appear at this week's All-Star match without securing advance permission from league officials.
The Argentine forward and Spanish defender were both selected for the showcase event pitting MLS against Liga MX but did not take part.
According to league regulations, players who miss the All-Star Game without obtaining prior authorisation from MLS become ineligible for their club's subsequent fixture.
The league confirmed the suspensions on Friday, with Messi having opted to rest during a demanding fixture schedule whilst Alba was managing an existing injury.
Reuters
|Lionel Messi ignored calls to play in the MLS All-Star match
The disciplinary action rules out both players from Saturday's encounter with FC Cincinnati at Inter Miami's home ground.
The visitors currently lead the Eastern Conference table.
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Despite the looming sanctions, both South American and European internationals participated in training sessions on Friday as Inter Miami awaited the league's final verdict.
The pair had anticipated featuring in the weekend fixture before the suspension was confirmed.
"I know Lionel Messi loves this league," MLS Commissioner Don Garber stated.
"I don't think there's a player — or anyone — who has done more for Major League Soccer than Messi.
"I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision."
The commissioner described the enforcement of the suspension as "a very difficult decision" but stressed that the league's established protocols had to be upheld.
"Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game, and we had to enforce it," Garber explained.
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Reuters
|Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will serve a one-match ban
Despite recognising Messi's immense impact on the league's profile and growth, Garber indicated that exemptions could not be granted, even for players of such stature.
The policy requires all selected players to obtain formal clearance from MLS headquarters before missing the annual showcase event.
Looking ahead, Garber revealed that MLS intends to review the existing All-Star attendance requirements in consultation with players to "determine how the rule should evolve."