Minutes After MLS Debut, Lionel Messi Risks Punishment by Violating Major MLS Rule

The Messi-ah is at it again! Lionel Messi swiftly made his mark on his MLS debut for Inter Miami against New York Red Bulls on Saturday. The Argentine superstar was left out of the starting XI by Inter Miami gaffer Gerard ‘Tata’ Martino. As we reported earlier, it was perhaps expected that Messi would be rested ahead of the game against the Red Bulls at the Red Bull Arena. However, the Argentina World Cup winner did violate an MLS rule after the game.

Messi has been all over the news and media in America since his move to Inter Miami. It’s fair to say that he’s stirred up a huge soccer craze all over the country since his move from PSG. The Argentine maestro has been in the mix of scoring goals and making assists for his new club as well. Messi has scored 11 goals and made 6 assists so far. He also bagged a goal on his MLS debut last night against NY Red Bulls. However, after the last game, Messi failed to adhere to MLS protocols and be present to speak to the media.

Messi breaks MLS rule after debut for Inter Miami

According to this tweet on X by media person Joe Pantorno, Messi violated the MLS rules as he didn’t speak to the press after the game. This could also lead to Messi getting sanctioned by the MLS.

The journalist cited that, “Per the Associated Press, MLS EVP of communications Dan Courtemanche said before the match that all players, including Messi, were required to be available to speak.”

This perhaps comes as a bit of a surprise as Messi has regularly been speaking to the media since his move to the USA. Earlier, Messi even suggested that he’s “very happy” in Miami. He also suggested that his move to the MLS was the “best decision” for him and his family.

Also read: “It’s Not in My Contract” – At PSG, Lionel Messi Refused to Visit Sick Children in Hospitals Despite Being UNICEF Ambassador, Accuses TV Host

Messi scores stunning team goal combining with ex-Barcelona teammates

Nevertheless, Messi has been doing all the talking on the pitch. His goal in the 89th minute for Inter Miami against the Red Bulls was straight out of the Barcelona playbook. It almost seemed reminiscent of the Barca tiki-taka of yesteryear. Messi combined with Busquets, and Jordi Alba to score a brilliantly worked team goal.

Busquets played the ball out to Alba, who acrobatically diverted the ball to Messi. Messi then found a delicate incisive through ball to Benjamin Cremaschi out wide. Cremaschi then put it on a plate for Messi to score a tap-in.

The goal was a staggering bit of play, with Messi instigating the move from playmaking to finishing off with a goal. This win lifts Inter Miami off the bottom of Eastern Conference table as they look to secure a playoff spot. The club are now in 14th place with 21 points. And with Messi in such form, it looks like the club could make it the playoffs after all.

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