Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi has received a fine from Major League Soccer following an incident during Saturday’s match against New York City FC.
The MLS Disciplinary Committee penalized the 37-year-old after he approached NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy and placed his hand on the back of his neck.
The altercation occurred shortly after Messi received a yellow card for dissent following an argument with the referee. Softfootball reports that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s actions were deemed a violation of league conduct policies.
Teammate Luis Suarez was also fined under the same policy for pinching the neck of opposing player Birk Risa during halftime.
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano sought to downplay the controversy, attributing the behavior to the high emotions of competitive football. He said:
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.
Despite the fines, both players remain available for selection as Miami continues their campaign.
