In 2018, Major League Soccer made headlines when global superstar Zlatan Ibrahimović, then a forward for LA Galaxy, chose to skip the league’s annual All-Star Game. The decision, while not injury-related, triggered a firm MLS policy that resulted in his immediate suspension for the next regular season match.
The Policy in Question
MLS has long encouraged participation in its All-Star festivities as a way to promote the league and its talent. To enforce this, the league implemented a rule stating that any healthy player who declines to appear in the All-Star Game without a legitimate injury is subject to an automatic one-game suspension in league play.
Zlatan’s decision to miss the 2018 MLS All-Star Game — held on August 1 in Atlanta, Georgia — invoked this rule. The absence was not due to injury, and as a result, the suspension was enforced promptly.
The Immediate Impact
Just days after the All-Star event, LA Galaxy faced the Colorado Rapids on August 4. Ibrahimović was notably absent, serving his mandatory suspension. Without their star striker, the Galaxy fell to the Rapids in a 2–1 defeat — a result that further highlighted the significance of Ibrahimović’s absence.
Ibrahimović’s Response
Zlatan did not hold back when addressing the league’s decision. He criticized the policy, calling it “ridiculous,” and expressed frustration with the rigid enforcement. In comments to reporters at the time, he stated:
“They do whatever they want. I come from a different world — I come from the real world. It is what it is. I respect it in the end, and I’m sorry for my teammates only that I could not help them in the game.”
Despite his dissatisfaction, the suspension stood, underscoring MLS’s commitment to maintaining participation standards for its marquee event.
A Precedent Set
Zlatan was not alone in facing this disciplinary measure. Fellow star David Villa also received a suspension under the same rule. The policy remains an ongoing part of MLS’s efforts to elevate the All-Star Game’s profile and ensure top players are involved when not injured.
Conclusion
Zlatan Ibrahimović’s brief but impactful MLS tenure was filled with memorable moments — both on and off the pitch. His 2018 All-Star Game absence and subsequent immediate suspension served as a reminder that even icons are not exempt from league rules, especially when it comes to representing MLS on its biggest stages.
