Lionel Messi will never appear on CBS Sports’ show with Kate Abdo, Jamie Carragher, and others.

Messi declined to make a cameo appearance on CBS Sports’ Champions League broadcast, citing Carragher’s presence as the reason for his decision, according to Abdo. Messi refused to share the screen with the Liverpool legend, despite his declaration that Messi is the greatest player of all time. The Reds veteran previously stated that the Argentine had texted him a “donkey” in response to Carragher’s criticism of his move to PSG.

ABDO’S SAYING
“You know that we made an official invitation extended one to Inter Miami and we asked him to come on the show, do you know what the official response was,” Abdo said to the crew. “Do I have permission to say this?” Apparently, Lionel Messi will not appear on any of Jamie Carragher’s television shows.”

THE LARGER IMAGE
Carragher joked that Messi’s refusal to appear alongside him was a “claim to fame.” Furthermore, he questioned whether Carragher’s analysis or the presence of the football legend would have been welcomed by the audience. Given his recent influence on Inter Miami and American football, CBS would have been more interested in having Messi appear on the broadcast. Notable accomplishments include leading his new team to the US Open Cup finals and their first-ever Leagues Cup victory.

WHAT COMES NEXT?
While it is unknown whether the Inter Miami star will appear on the popular show, one thing is certain: the Argentine will not be back in action until February 2024, when the Herons resume pre-season training.