Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano slams MLS for suspending Lionel Messi after goalless draw against FC Cincinnati

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has lambasted MLS for their decision to ban Lionel Messi after his absence at the All-Star game last week. The Argentine forward was not present as Inter Miami ended up in a goalless draw against FC Cincinnati in the MLS on Saturday, July 27.

Javier Mascherano raises questions on Lionel Messi's ban

While interacting with reporters, Mascherano raised questions on the decision to suspend Lionel Messi after the MLS commissioner gave a statement just 24 hours saying that he understands Messi's decision.

"I don’t like to speak about other people’s decisions, but it’s strange when something is said one day and the opposite happens the next. Messi has played an enormous number of matches. When it’s about selling tickets or filling stadiums, no one 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", he said (via GOAL).

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba failed to show their presence for the MLS All-Star game last week despite being part of the roster. Former Barcelona duo took their time to rest after a hectic schedule so far, and were slapped with one-game suspension as per the MLS rules.

Messi watched the game from the stand along with the new inclusion Rodrigo De Paul, who was unveiled on the pitch just before the kick-off. Inter Miami failed to secure points against Cincinnati for the second time in the season, having also lost against them away from home on July 17.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has criticized the absence of Messi as his side failed to gain points against FC Cincinnati.

In the post-match conference, Mascherano oted that his team lacked the finishing touch. He admitted that missed Messi's brilliance, who is their highest goal scorer.

"We just lacked the finishing touch today. We had five or six really clear chances, and their goalkeeper did well. We’ve been scoring a lot recently. Of course, Messi wasn’t on the pitch and we felt his absence, but overall the performance was very strong - even though we still have room for improvement", he said (via GOAL).

Lionel Messi has produced 18 goals in as many appearances in 18 MLS matches. The Argentine legend will come back to action for Inter Miami when they begin their Leagues Cup campaign against Atlas on Thursday.