Despite their current winning streak, things are looking a little complicated for Inter Miami. After Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were absent from the All-Star game, MLS has taken a bold disciplinary decision with both stars that affects the team.
Inter Miami have impressively secured four victories in their last five MLS matches, solidifying their position in fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 41 points. They have achieved this despite having played three fewer games than some of their competitors. However, their prospects have taken a slight hit following the MLS’s recent decision concerning the absence of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba from the All-Star game.
Although coach Javier Mascherano claimed to know nothing about the sanction, MLS announced that Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will be suspended for one game after skipping the All-Star game. This means they will be absent against FC Cincinnati for the top spot in the Supporters’ Shield race. These two absences add to those of Oscar Ustari, Ian Fray, and Maximiliano Falcon, greatly complicating the outlook for Inter Miami.
Following the absence of both stars, MLS commissioner Don Garber spoke about the issue on Wednesday 23th July, clarifying several points. “Most of our teams had a 10-day break. Miami hasn’t…We would have loved to have Leo here. We’d love to have every player that was selected for the All-Star team here. We’ll have to manage through what Miami is going to say about that.”
With Messi and Alba ruled out, Inter Miami face major test against FC Cincinnati
Inter Miami boast a stellar roster and currently ride a wave of excellent form, yet FC Cincinnati consistently present one of the toughest challenges for Javier Mascherano’s squad. In the past five encounters, Lionel Messi’s team has secured victory only once, underscoring Cincinnati’s formidable presence. With absences such as the Argentine icon and Jordi Alba, the upcoming match could prove even more daunting.
In their most recent clash, FC Cincinnati delivered a commanding 3-0 triumph, despite Messi and Alba being present on the field. Additionally, head coach Mascherano disclosed that Noah Allen, typically Alba’s replacement at left back, remains in recovery from injury. Although he may be available on the bench, an unexpected suspension might compel him to start, even if he is not fully fit.
Inter Miami’s Yannick Bright speaks out on Messi and Alba’s controversial sanction
After the sanction against Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba was announced, Inter Miami player Yannick Bright spoke about the matter, making his perspective very clear. “This is my first year and a half in the MLS and I have never seen this… I don’t think it is a good idea to put in the middle of the season (the All-Star game) especially for us that we have had 7 games in the past month and we’re gonna have more next month. I don’t think it is useful at all. I do not like it.”
From: bolavip.com