Messi fined by MLS for confrontation with opposing coach

Lionel Messi, captain of Inter Miami and Argentina, has been fined an undisclosed amount by Major League Soccer (MLS) for an incident during Saturday’s 2-2 draw against New York City FC. 

According to BBC Sport, the MLS Disciplinary Committee issued the fine after Messi was seen grabbing the neck of New York City FC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy at the end of the match. 

The altercation followed a yellow card Messi received for dissent after arguing with the referee. Footage showed the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner approaching Ballouchy and placing his hand on the back of his neck. 

In a separate disciplinary action, Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez was also fined for pinching the back of New York City player Birk Risa’s neck at halftime. 

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano downplayed the incidents, stating, “It’s difficult sometimes to control emotions. In football, you have to understand the players and the emotions of the game. What happens on the pitch stays on the pitch.” 

While the exact fines remain undisclosed, the MLS’s decision reinforces its commitment to upholding discipline and professionalism on the field.