Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer after a heated exchange with New York City FC’s assistant coach, Mehdi Ballouchy, following Saturday’s season-opening match.
The confrontation occurred after Messi’s crucial assist in stoppage time, which helped secure a 2-2 draw for Inter Miami. As the final whistle blew, Messi was seen engaging in a tense argument with Ballouchy, during which he made contact with the assistant coach’s neck.
MLS acted swiftly, with their disciplinary committee issuing a fine to Messi for violating the league’s policy regarding physical contact with an opponent’s neck, head, or face. The policy is in place to ensure fair play and respect among players and officials alike.
The incident echoed a similar one involving Messi’s teammate, Luis Suarez, who also faced disciplinary action for placing his hands on NYCFC defender Birk Risa’s neck during halftime. Both Messi and Suarez’s fines serve as a reminder of the league’s commitment to maintaining a professional standard on the field.
