Another Liga MX star withdraws from the 2025 All-Star Game

Everything is set for this evening’s All-Star Game at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas - although with last-minute changes to the rosters. James Rodríguez had been called up to represent Liga MX, but ended up staying in Guanajuato to prepare for Saturday’s Apertura game against Cruz Azul. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami team mate Jordi Alba, who were lined up to represent MLS, will also be absent.

James was one of three Colombians called to play in the match, an annual event since 2021. However, the midfielder did not travel to the United States in a joint decision with the club and the medical staff at León.

James focused on the start of the new campaign

Journalist Paco Montes noted that the León number 10’s absence was solely to ensure he remains focused on the Apertura. The team have three points from the first two games (one defeat and one victory - with one goal from James).

Although there was also speculation that his absence was due to a muscle overload, which was later denied by the same journalist, who pointed out that the Colombian was training alongside his teammates without any physical limitations.

All Star, without James and Messi

The Colombian’s absence isn’t the only thing that’s making the match a little less appealing. The Argentine star also won’t be in Texas. He didn’t show up for Tuesday’s practice and was ultimately ruled out by MLS for the match that kicks off at 6 p.m. in Colombia.

This afternoon’s match will culminate the event that encompasses the dispute between MLS and Liga MX. In the Skills Challenge, the United States team took the honor.

This would be the eleven that Nico Estévez, in charge of directing the MLS talents, would put together: Yohei Takaoka (Vancouver Whitecaps); Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Michael Boxall (Minnesota United), Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew); Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Jeppe Tverskov (San Diego FC), Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Evander (FC Cincinnati), Anders Dreyer (San Diego FC) and Sam Surridge (Nashville SC).

For Liga MX, the eleven chosen by André Jardim would be: Luis Malagón (América); Israel Reyes (América), Ignacio Rivero (Cruz Azul), Sergio Ramos (Monterrey), Jesús Gallardo (Toluca); Erik Lira (Cruz Azul), Sergio Canales (Monterrey), Alejandro Zendejas (América), Alexis Vega (Toluca), Brian Rodríguez (América) and Hugo Camberos (Chivas).

James will have Rogelio Funes Mori in León

The lack of a goalscorer has been noticeable in León’s first matches of the second half since leaving Cádiz. Berizzo and the club’s management knew they needed to strengthen their attack, and they’ve finally found the player who can become James’ new partner.

Rogelio Funes Mori will join León for a year after leaving Pumas by mutual agreement, according to César Luis Merlo. The 34-year-old striker arrives with 218 goals in 560 professional matches.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.