It’s a rare all-star game that reflects a league’s evolution, but that’s what this year’s MLS showcase offers. On July 23 at 9 p.m. ET, two dozen MLS players will step onto the field at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, and offer a snapshot of the league’s progress.

Messi's potential absence could lead to him receiving a one-game suspension for Inter Miami in accordance with MLS rules. A similar situation arose for Zlatan Ibrahimovic back in 2018, during his time at LA Galaxy. The Swedish star prioritised club matches over that year's MLS All-Stars game and had to serve a ban in their next league clash.