Lionel Messi likely to miss MLS All-Star game after picking up injury in Copa America final - Reports

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi is likely set to miss the MLS All-Star game after picking up an ankle injury in the Copa America final on July 14. The 2024 MLS All-Star game is set to take place on July 24 between a selected group of MLS stars and Liga MX stars

Messi has instantly become the biggest attraction in the MLS after joining the league last July. The Argentine forward led Inter Miami to the Leagues Cup title last season and had his side atop the MLS standings this season before heading to the Copa America. His form and contributions ensured that he was included in the 30-man MLS All-Star roster in his first full season.

Lionel Messi became the most decorated player (45) in football history when he won the Copa America with La Albiceleste, but the victory came at a cost. The 37-year-old lasted just 66 minutes before being substituted, having picked up the injury in a first-half collision with Santiago Arias.

USA Today reported that the forward will likely be missing when the All-Star game comes around in just over a week. The publication also reported that the Argentine forward may miss out on Inter Miami's Leagues Cup defense, which is due to commence on July 27.

Lionel Messi is not the only Inter Miami player in the All-Star squad, with teammates Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets also included. The Argentine forward revealed that he's fine after his ankle injury, but no timeline has been provided for his return to action.

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Historic Copa America win strengthens Lionel Messi GOAT claim

Winning the Copa America on US soil has arguably lent further credence to claims that Lionel Messi is the greatest footballer ever. He led La Albiceleste to a third consecutive major trophy in three years, matching the feat of the great Spanish team of 2008-2012.

Messi didn't contribute much in the tournament, finishing with one goal and an assist as he struggled for fitness in the USA. The veteran forward was not needed much by his teammates, who proved themselves more than capable of thriving in his absence.

Lionel Messi became the most decorated footballer in the history of the game after the win over Colombia in Miami. The former Barcelona man won his 45th career title. It is in addition to his numerous individual honors and records, makes him the most successful football player ever.

Messi went from losing three major finals in three years with Argentina to winning three titles in that same span. He won the 2021 Copa America, La Finalissima and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The diminutive forward surpassed Dani Alves' trophy tally in Miami and may have surpassed every other player's career, as well.