LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) Former USMNT defender Alexi Lalas has cautioned Inter Miami and Major League Soccer (MLS) to maintain transparency regarding Lionel Messi’s injury status.
Lalas emphasized that both Inter Miami and MLS should be more forthcoming about whether Messi will be playing in games, given the high demand for tickets to see the legendary player in action.
Lalas, speaking on the Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast, criticized MLS Commissioner Don Garber’s stance that he cannot compel teams or players to act against the best interests of a player’s health and safety.
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Lalas asserted that it’s essential for clubs to communicate openly if Messi is unavailable to play, especially after using him extensively for soccer promotion.
The controversy arose when Messi didn’t travel with the squad for their match against Atlanta United, which resulted in a 5-2 defeat for Inter Miami.
His absence disappointed many fans, and ticket prices surged as MLS gained a broader audience with Messi’s arrival.
Messi has since returned to Inter Miami training and might play against Toronto FC, subject to a late fitness test, after sitting out the Atlanta match due to muscular fatigue.
Lalas’ remarks underscore the significant impact Messi’s presence has had on MLS, making it crucial for clubs and the league to provide clear information about his availability to fans, teams, and media.
