Lionel Messi has made headlines not only for his skills on the pitch but also for some controversial moments as he debuts with Inter Miami for the 2025 Major League Soccer season.
The Argentine superstar kicked off the season by showcasing his remarkable talent, contributing significantly to Inter Miami's early matches. During his opening game against New York City FC on February 22, 2025, Messi displayed his playmaking ability, assisting twice and helping his team secure a 2-2 draw. Earlier, he had shone brightly as well, scoring the only goal against Sporting Kansas City during the CONCACAF Champions Cup, setting the tone for his promising season.
Messi's goal against Sporting KC was a stunning half-volley from the edge of the box, demonstrating the exceptional skills he’s renowned for worldwide. His efforts have positioned Inter Miami as potential strong competitors this season, particularly after their disappointing exit from the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs.
Yet, it hasn't all been about goals and assists. Messi found himself embroiled in controversy after the NYCFC match. Following the final whistle, CCTV footage revealed Messi approaching NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy. Their encounter escalated quickly, leading Messi to put his hand on the coach's neck. This shocking gesture caught everyone by surprise, triggering disciplinary action from the MLS.
"The MLS Disciplinary Committee has fined Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi an undisclosed amount for violating the hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent policy following the conclusion of Inter Miami’s match against New York City FC on February 22," the league announced. This action followed Messi’s earlier confrontation with match referee Alexis Da Silva, which led to the Argentine receiving a yellow card for his heated reactions on the field.
Messi's teammate, Luis Suarez, also faced disciplinary scrutiny for his conduct during the same match, where he had been seen grabbing the neck of NYCFC defender Birk Risa. Both players’ actions have raised questions about the emotional toll of competitive sports and how it can influence player behavior.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano downplayed the incident, highlighting the intense pressure players face during matches. "It’s difficult when you’re on the pitch, and sometimes you think things aren’t going the right way because you can see some mistakes from the referee. To understand the players and the emotions, you have to be inside the pitch. I think the press wants to create a circus around it," he said, framing Messi's actions within the larger narrative of competitive sports frustrations.
The aftermath of the NYCFC match also involved another disciplinary moment concerning the match officials. Referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava faced scrutiny after it was revealed he had approached Messi asking for his shirt after the match. This notion was criticized as it breached the expected conduct for officials, prompting CONCACAF to issue disciplinary measures against Ortiz Nava.
Despite these controversies, Messi’s performance remains undeniably impressive. Through his leadership and skill, Messi has become integral to Miami’s tactics and strategies, and his two assists operationalized Miami's play substantially even when down to ten men against NYCFC.
The upcoming matches will be pivotal for Inter Miami as they seek to build on their early season momentum. They face Houston Dynamo on March 3, and both fans and analysts will be eager to see whether Messi can maintain his focus and excitement on the pitch, overcoming any distractions brought by off-field incidents.
Messi’s integration and impact on the MLS has already captured imaginations, and as he pushes through the challenges of his new league, his storied career is sure to bring both brilliance and controversy.
Fans and critics alike will be watching as this soccer icon continues to weave his legacy with Inter Miami, where the promise of exhilarating play must also navigate the pressures and responsibilities of his position.