Will Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez feature in MLS All-Star week? Inter Miami provide update
Inter Miami have provided an update on the availability of superstar duo Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez for the MLS All-Star week. The pair had been named in the MLS All-Star team to face the Liga MX All-Star team in this year's game on July 25.
Much of the success of the Herons this year has been built on the performances of aging stars Messi and Suarez, among others.
In recognition of their immense contribution, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba were named to the All-Star team. However, the Herons have now confirmed that Messi and Suarez will not participate for varying reasons.
In a statement to the Miami Herald, Inter Miami said:
“Leo Messi will miss the All-Star Game due to an ankle injury, while Luis Suarez, who recently returned from international duty after over 40 days away from the club, will miss the All-Star Game due to knee discomfort. Their availability for Saturday’s League’s Cup match will be assessed based on their daily recovery process.”
Messi injured his ankle during Argentina's 1-0 win in the Copa America final against Colombia on July 14, and there is no specific timeline for his return yet. Suarez, on the other hand, barely featured for Uruguay in the tournament but managed to score a crucial goal in the third-place playoff against Canada.
Inter Miami fans will be pleased to see the club prioritize the health and fitness of their biggest stars. They will be hopeful of both men returning when they commence their Leagues Cup defense this week.
Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez named among greatest footballers of 21st century
Inter Miami duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have been named among the greatest players of the 21st century by ESPN. The network ranked the 25 best players since 2000, and both men made it to the list.
A cult hero at Ajax, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid, Suarez is easily one of the finest strikers to have ever played the game. The 37-year-old was voted as the 24th-best player on the list, with his goalscoring exploits sufficient proof of his prowess.
Lionel Messi ended up in first place, further testifying to the greatness of his legacy in professional football. The 37-year-old Argentine has won the most team trophies in football (45) and the most Ballon d'Ors (eight).