Major League Soccer (MLS) says Lionel Messi will not be required to play in next week’s MLS All-Star Game after representing Argentina in the World Cup final. Both outlets report that MLS has indicated Messi can opt out because of the workload following the tournament. The All-Star Game is described as an annual showcase featuring top players from across MLS against rivals from Mexico’s Liga MX. Participation is typically treated as mandatory under league rules, but MLS’s statement creates an exception in Messi’s case following his World Cup involvement. The reports focus on MLS’s guidance rather than any agreement on whether Messi will definitely withdraw, noting that the decision is presented as a possible skip. No additional details about scheduling, fitness, or a formal replacement were included in the provided summaries.