Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano will be without stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba vs. FC Cincinnati after MLS opted on Friday to issue a one-game sanction to the duo for skipping the MLS All-Star Game.

Lionel Messi was absent in the MLS All-Star Game, and Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano delivered an update on the legend's status. Lionel Messi’s last-minute absence from the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday raised questions about whether the Inter Miami star was dealing with an injury or had simply opted out.

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been suspended for Inter Miami's crucial match against FC Cincinnati after missing this week's All-Star Game.