Mohamed applauds MLS All-Star Game but requests schedule change
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Antonio Mohamed will manage the Liga MX All-Stars against MLS but noted the match date conflicts with major summer events.
- He suggested that aligning MLS's season schedule with other leagues starting in 2027 could allow for more player participation and potentially open doors for South American tournaments.
- Mohamed views the All-Star game as a show to be enjoyed by fans, with most players expected to play 45 minutes, though one player is sidelined with a knee injury.
Antonio Mohamed, set to manage the Liga MX All-Stars against their MLS counterparts, expressed his desire to win but pointed out the current scheduling challenges. "It's very close to the big summer events, it would have to be later," he stated. Mohamed believes that once MLS aligns its season with global calendars, likely in 2027, the event will occur at a more opportune time, allowing all players to participate.
Several notable players will miss the upcoming match due to scheduling conflicts. Liga MX will be without Armando Gonzรกlez, Brian Gutiรฉrrez, Keylor Navas, and Nahuel Guzmรกn. For MLS, the absence of Lionel Messi is particularly felt. The league's shift to a September-to-May season starting in 2027 is expected to resolve these issues.
Mohamed also suggested that this calendar change could pave the way for both leagues to participate in more competitive South American tournaments. "The change in the MLS calendar could be the first step to playing in South America, because it is much more competitive," he recalled, acknowledging the travel demands but emphasizing the benefit of measuring forces, potentially returning to the Copa Libertadores.
Despite the logistical considerations, Mohamed plans to enjoy the exhibition match at Bank of America Stadium. "Obviously, I see it as a show. I came to enjoy, the players too," he affirmed. "I hope it's a great spectacle from both sides... It's an event for people to enjoy." He anticipates most of the 23 available players will play 45 minutes, with one player, Kevin Castaรฑeda, ruled out due to a knee issue.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.