Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi, has attributed his absence from the MLS All-Star Game to fatigue, revealing that the toll of constant competition left him needing rest.
The Argentine icon was notably missing from last Wednesday’s clash in Austin, Texas, where the MLS All-Stars defeated their Liga MX counterparts 3-1.
In response to his no-show, Major League Soccer handed Messi a one-match suspension.
Since returning to action, Messi has confessed that skipping the All-Star game may have set him back physically.
Despite making a strong comeback by delivering two assists in Inter Miami’s latest win, he expressed frustration over not being allowed to play in the All-Star event.
“I was in a bit of a drag at the start,” Messi said following the match. “I was playing regularly, but the other day they didn’t let me play. And I felt it today, especially in the first half.”
The World Cup winner went on to stress the importance of consistent match play for his fitness.
“Not playing the other day, even though it may seem positive at first glance, is worse for me, because I need the competition. Physically, I feel better as I play matches and find my rhythm,” he added.