Why Lionel Messi Could Refuse to Play Some MLS Games Days After Sealing Move to Miami
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Lionel Messi could reportedly refuse to play in some Major League Soccer games only one week after sealing a sensational move to Inter Miami.
Messi joined the David Beckham-owned franchise on a free transfer after the completion of his Paris Saint-Germain contract. He rejected an attempt to return to Barcelonaand an audacious offer from the Saudi Pro League.
He is now expected to be the new shining light of the American League, with more of his former Barcelona teammates poised to join him. Deals have already been agreed for Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, with the club also keen on roping in Andres Iniesta and Luis Suarez.
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Football Why Messi could miss some gamesBut even amidst all the razzmatazz of the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner kicking it in the MLS, it has emerged that the Argentine might refuse to play in some games due to the presence of artificial turfs.
The Mirrorreports that the 36-year-old is unwilling to play on unnatural surfaces due to the dangers it poses to athletes. Beckham himself has in the past voiced concerns over footballersbeing made to play on artificial surfaces.
Six MLS clubs currently have such grounds in what could be a major problem for the league should Messi decline to play in those games. Portland Timbers, New England Revolution, Charlotte FC, Seattle Sounders, Atlanta United and Vancouver Whitecaps all
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