Ex-MLS Coach Explodes Over Lionel Messi's Suspension: "It's a Joke" originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Inter Miami were handed a harsh reality check ahead of their game against Cincinnati FC, with Major League Soccer confirming a one-match ban for Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba.

The future of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has been somewhat up in the air for a while. Since his arrival in the summer of 2023, it has been quite a ride for the Argentinian superstar over the past two years.

Lionel Messi had two assists, including one in the final seconds of the match, to help lift Inter Miami over Atlas 2-1 in their Leagues Cup opener on Wednesday night. It was Messi's first game back since he and teammate Jordi Alba were suspended one match by Major League Soccer for skipping its All-Star game.