Everyone associated with the MLS knows the impact of Lionel Messi on the league since joining Inter Miami in July. The Florida-based club quickly snapped up the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner after he left PSG following the expiration of his contract. The Argentine has enjoyed a tremendous turnaround in the United States, helping Inter Miami to a run of victories leading to their success in the Leagues Cup.
So far, Messi has scored ten goals in just seven games for Inter Miami in the competition before starting brightly in the new MLS season against the New York Red Bulls. However, despite all his brilliant performances and superstar status, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner could face possible punishment for breaking a strict MLS rule.
Lionel Messi set for possible punishment
Inter Miami is living in a different world right now. The Florida-based club has enjoyed a fantastic start to their 23/24 season, lifting the Leagues Cup, reaching the finals of the US Open Cup, and resuming their MLS campaign with a victory over New York Red Bulls. These achievements couldn’t have been possible without Lionel Messi, who has scored 11 goals in just nine games for his new club.
Messi was benched for the 2-0 win over New York Red Bulls before being introduced for the final 30 minutes, and boy, he delivered! The Argentine exchanged excellent passes with a teammate before tapping in to score the team’s second of the game, taking his tally for Inter Miami to 11 goals in nine appearances. However, Messi may face punishments for breaking a strict MLS rule.
According to GOAL, Lionel Messi had post-match duties and was scheduled for press duties. Nonetheless, the Argentine was not present, hence the pending punishment he may face for breaking the MLS press rule. The rule states that players must be available for post-match interviews at the end of each game, but Messi’s absence after the game against the New York Red Bulls may land him in trouble in his new home.
Messi spotted chilling with family
Despite facing a potential punishment from the MLS, Lionel Messi hasn’t let this affect his beautiful time with his family. The Argentine shared a beautiful family picture via his Instagram account as he spent some time with his wife and two of his sons following the win over the New York Red Bulls.
While it’s unclear what the MLS will do regarding Messi’s rule breach, the Argentine continues to dazzle with his brilliance, and Inter Miami will hope that his punishment will not include a ban of any kind as they need him ready for the upcoming fixtures.
What do you think Messi’s punishment will be? Let us know in the comments.
