Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount by Major League Soccer (MLS) after an on-field altercation in which he grabbed the neck of a New York City FC assistant coach following Inter Miami’s season-opening match on Saturday.
The World Cup-winning Argentine was seen on camera confronting NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy in a tense exchange immediately after the final whistle.
During the argument, Messi twice placed his hands on the back of Ballouchy’s neck, an action that violated the league’s rules on physical conduct.
In an official statement, MLS announced that its disciplinary committee had reviewed the footage and determined that Messi had breached the league’s “Hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent policy.” As a result, he was issued a financial penalty, though the exact amount was not disclosed.
The heated moment followed an intense game in which Messi played a key role in securing a 2-2 draw for Inter Miami. In stoppage time, he provided the crucial assist for Telasco Segovia’s equalizing goal, preventing his team from starting the season with a defeat at Chase Stadium.
Messi was not the only player penalized for a similar act of aggression. His teammate and longtime friend, Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, also received a fine for placing his hands on the neck of NYCFC defender Birk Risa during a separate confrontation at halftime.
The incident has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some defending Messi’s actions as part of the game’s emotional intensity, while others argue that such behavior sets a poor example, especially coming from one of football’s greatest icons.
Despite the controversy, Inter Miami will be looking to move forward as they prepare for their next league fixture, with Messi expected to remain a pivotal figure in their campaign.
