'It's difficult to have chemistry' – Other players express surprise over Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba both skipping MLS All-Star Game training sessions

Messi and Alba missed two mandatory training sessions for the MLS All-Star team, with some MLS players surprised by their absence

MLS All-Star Game Buzz: Surprise Over Messi and Alba’s Absence from Training

Unexpected Twist in All-Star Preparations – As the excitement builds for the MLS All-Star Game, the notable absence of Miami stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba from key training sessions has sparked conversations among fellow players, highlighting the challenges of building team synergy in such a short time.

In the heart of Austin, Texas, the gathered at the state-of-the-art St. David’s Performance Center of for their practice on Monday. Out of the 30 chosen players, 28 showed up, including standout names like Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano from San Diego and Brian White from .

  • Messi, Alba have missed both training sessions
  • Participation for both in All-Star activities are in doubt
  • Carles Gil and Diego Luna among those surprised

'It's difficult to have chemistry' - Other players express surprise over Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba both skipping MLS All-Star Game training sessions'It's difficult to have chemistry' - Other players express surprise over Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba both skipping MLS All-Star Game training sessions'It's difficult to have chemistry' - Other players express surprise over Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba both skipping MLS All-Star Game training sessions'It's difficult to have chemistry' - Other players express surprise over Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba both skipping MLS All-Star Game training sessions

Key Absences Raise Eyebrows Among MLS All-Star Game Participants

However, the spotlight fell on the missing duo from Inter Miami: Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba. These ex- teammates skipped the session, and the pattern repeated on Tuesday, leaving some of their peers puzzled by the development.

Carles Gil, the New Revolution standout, shared his thoughts: “They’re listed on the team, but I’m not sure about their arrival timeline-maybe today or tomorrow. It would be great if they join us, just like the rest. With only a couple of practice days, forging real connections on the field becomes quite a challenge.”

Player Reactions to the No-Shows

Diego Luna, representing and the USMNT, shared a similar view. “It’s a bit unexpected since they’re on the roster, but everyone has their personal commitments,” he noted.

Despite the absences, both athletes stayed positive. Luna remarked, “The upside is if they arrive tomorrow, we can team up, enjoy the game, and make the most of it.”

Gil emphasized, “Ultimately, this event brings together the league’s elite talent. Each player brings top-notch skills, and at its core, it’s all about the beautiful game.”

Uncertainties Surrounding Messi and Alba’s Involvement in MLS All-Star Game

Even with Luna’s hopeful outlook, there’s still no official word on when-or if-Messi and Alba will join. Doubts linger about their role in any All-Star festivities this week, a point touched on by MLS coach Nico Estevez during a Monday briefing.

“That’s something for their team to handle. My role is to guide the players available to me. I’m keeping my fingers crossed-he’s someone I’d love to have on the field,” Estevez stated.

Potential Consequences and League Rules

Questions remain about possible repercussions for missing Media Day and the mandatory practices. Recent reports suggest Messi might show up on Wednesday. Per MLS guidelines, without a valid medical excuse, participation is required to dodge a suspension for Inter Miami’s upcoming clash with this weekend. As of the latest 2024 season updates, similar cases have led to fines or game bans, emphasizing the league’s push for full engagement in marquee events.

Integrating Stars into the MLS All-Star Game Lineup

If Messi and Alba do make it, fellow All-Stars feel blending them in won’t be overly complicated.

Austin FC’s Brad Stuver commented lightheartedly, “Building solid team bonds isn’t something that happens overnight-think of it like nurturing a fine wine; it needs time to mature over seasons. For now, we’re soaking up the vibe with who’s here, sharing laughs and stories with rivals turned teammates.”

Marco Pašalić from SC chimed in, “It’s no big deal for me. Whatever their reasons for not being here yet, that’s their call. We’re having a blast in training, and when we hit the pitch together tomorrow, it’ll all come together smoothly.”

Historical Context and Upcoming Events

Messi earned a spot in the 2023 All-Star lineup but sat out due to an injury from the Copa America finale. Should he suit up this time, it would mark his debut in the MLS All-Star spotlight. Recent stats show MLS All-Star participation has boosted player visibility, with viewership up 15% in the last event, drawing global attention.

The action ramps up with the Skills Challenge on Tuesday evening, spotlighting Alba among the key figures, leading into the big showdown at Q2 Stadium on Wednesday.