Lionel Messi’s absence from the MLS All-Star Game raised questions about his health, but Inter Miami FC coach Javier Mascherano has put those concerns to rest. Messi was selected for the game but didn’t travel and missed the event along with Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano criticized MLS' decision to suspend Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for Saturday's 0-0 draw at home against FC Cincinnati for failing to participate in the All-Star Game, questioning whether the same ruling would have been made if Miami had instead been playing a road game.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano has hit out at the MLS for their decision to suspend Lionel Messi following his no-show at the All-Star game last week.

Inter Miami played FC Cincinnati to a 0-0 draw without the suspended Lionel Messi on Saturday night. Messi was not available after he and teammate Jordi Alba were suspended one match by Major League Soccer for skipping the All-Star game. Messi was still in attendance on Saturday, watching from a suite at Chase Stadium.

Inter Miami returns to Chase Stadium, where this Saturday they will host FC Cincinnati, the current leader of the Eastern Conference of the MLS, and a rival that just 10 days ago the team led by

Javier Mascherano has made Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami's objective clear after their elimination from the Club World Cup.

Head coach Javier Mascherano described Inter Miami’s first half against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup last-16 tie as a “bloodbath”.