Since arriving in MLS, Lionel Messi has attracted crowds and spotlights, but also criticism. This week again, on the occasion of the All-Star Game which brings together the best figures in the championship, the Argentinian found himself at the heart of a new discomfort. The former Barcelona continues to provoke a stir in North American football, despite the adulation of fans from around the world.
Messi and Jordi Alba missed the two compulsory trainings organized before the poster between MLS stars and those of Liga MX. Several players like Carles Gil or Diego Luna were surprised not to see the star of Inter Miami, while his presence appeared on all the official lists. Brad Stuver by Austin FC recognized that these absences were harmful to collective alchemy, while others mentioned a lack of consideration.
Messi dries training and relaunches an old controversy
The former PSG player is not at his first attempt. Last year already, he had been accused of choosing his matches with Miami, causing the frustration of several clubs which had organized major events to welcome him without ever seeing him on the lawn. Between injuries and internal decisions, Messi did not always meet the expectations of those who hoped to live “their moment” with the world champion.
Lionel Messi still dries, the MLS wonders
In a league in search of credibility, the attitude of superstars questions. Even if Messi is expected this week, uncertainty around his participation maintains discomfort. For a championship that relies on fairness and transparency, these repeated absences can offend the American sensitivities, attached to compliance with common rules.
This new case reactivates a latent tension between the requirements of the star-system and the MLS culture. It remains to be seen whether the league will dare to rage against its largest attraction or will continue to develop tailor -made rules for its most media icons. The cultural gap between European habits and North American expectations seems definitely difficult to fill.
