No Messi, no Alba: Can the MLS All-Star Game be fixed, and where does it go from here?
Briefly

MLS secured a 3-1 victory over Liga MX in the 2025 All-Star Game, with goals from Sam Surridge, Brian White, and MVP Tai Baribo, amid a well-celebrated event in Austin, Texas. However, the notable absence of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba raised questions about player participation in high-profile matches. Miami coach Javier Mascherano expressed concerns about player fatigue due to a packed schedule. Historical precedents of star players declining participation were also mentioned, raising concerns for future All-Star events amid schedule congestion and significant player commitments during World Cup years.
The 2025 All-Star Game featured a 3-1 victory for MLS against Liga MX, with goals from Sam Surridge, Brian White, and MVP Tai Baribo.
The absence of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba from the match was a notable omission, underscoring challenges regarding player participation in marquee events.
Read at ESPN.com
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