Messi was banned from playing Cincinnati last week after skipping the MLS Allstars game. The Argentine cited "fatigue" for his reason to decline selection, but was still handed a one-match ban as punishment for his decision.
Returning to action on Wednesday evening for a Leagues Cup match against Mexico's Atlas (a 2-1 victory), the former Barcelona and PSG star lashed out at MLS chiefs.
"I was in a bit of a drag at the start," Messi commented after his team's victory, in which he provided two assists. "I was playing regularly, but the other day they didn't let me play. And I felt it today, especially in the first half."
Messi added, "Not playing the other day, even though it may seem positive at first glance, is worse for me, because I need the competition. Physically, I feel better as I play matches and find my rhythm."