Lokomotiv Gomel Overview

GOAL takes a look at the big storylines and takeaways leading up to the All-Star Game.

With the World Cup still lingering in the rear view mirror, the MLS All Star game is in a precarious spot - yet it still carries something of a charm.

Lionel Messi will once again be the notable absentee from the MLS All-Star Game this week in Charlotte, but the Inter Miami superstar is set to avoid the disciplinary action that followed his withdrawal last year. Despite being named to the roster for the showpiece event against the Liga MX All-Stars, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has been granted special leave alongside international team-mate Rodrigo De Paul.

Messi has undoubtedly raised the profile of MLS, but his decision to skip ASG could have lasting reverberations for the league