Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano has voiced his frustration over Major League Soccer’s decision to suspend Lionel Messi, criticizing the league’s handling of the situation.
The Argentine legend, who previously played alongside Messi at Barcelona and for Argentina, was visibly upset after the star forward missed Inter Miami’s 0-0 draw with FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters at Chase Stadium, Mascherano questioned the league’s consistency and priorities following a statement from the MLS commissioner just a day before the match, confirming Messi’s suspension.
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“I don’t like commenting on others’ decisions, but it’s strange when one thing is said and then the opposite happens the next day,” Mascherano said, via GOAL.
“Messi has played an enormous number of games. When it comes to selling tickets or filling stadiums, nobody complains. But now that we had a home game, he’s suspended? Would they have done the same if we were playing away? It’s frustrating.”
Messi, along with fellow former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba, had skipped the MLS All-Star Game last week despite being named in the squad. As a result, both players were handed a one-game suspension under MLS rules.
