Tata Martino Refuses to Make Comments on Lionel Messi’s Reported Altercation With Monterrey Staff Amid Legal Troubles

The dust hasn’t settled since Inter Miami‘s 2-1 loss against Monterrey in the CONCACAF Champions League clash. Lionel Messi remains in the spotlight following his confrontation with the Liga MX coaching staff in the aftermath of the quarterfinal Leg 1. The matter took a turn for the worse after the Mexican side filed a complaint against the Herons’ conduct. Amidst legal woes, Tata Martino broke his silence on the matter, choosing not to comment with a succinct claim, saying, “I won’t make any comments on everything that has been said about Monterrey’s match.”

The assertion was made in the post-match presser following Inter Miami’s four-goal draw against Colorado in the MLS. Instead of providing any further statement to defend their case, Martino opted to remain silent. Perhaps the former River Plate boss wasn’t interested in further extending the matter. Notably, it all started after rival manager Fernando Ortiz openly suggested that referees might show bias in favor of Inter Miami during Leg 1, citing the club’s importance to the image of the MLS.

However, things took an unexpected turn as Miami went down to 10 men and ultimately lost the home fixture. This prompted Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and coach Martino to initially approach referee Walter Lopez regarding crucial decisions that contributed to their defeat. Subsequently, the former Barcelona trio engaged in a heated exchange with Ortiz and his assistant, Nico Sanchez. Monterrey wasn’t keen to bury the hatchet as they pursued legal action against the Florida-based club.

Interestingly, this claim from Martino is similar to what Fernando Ortiz made, denying providing any explanation for the incident. Perhaps, the Miami boss’ mind must have been occupied by his side’s yet another upsetting performance.

Lionel Messi gets a lukewarm welcome from Inter Miami

Inter Miami once again squandered their lead as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Colorado at Chase Stadium during their MLS fixture. After falling behind to a penalty kick, Tata Martino opted to bring Lionel Messi into play in the second half. The captain leveled the score in the 57th minute, and just three minutes later, Leonardo Afonso extended the lead.

However, Colorado remained determined not to leave empty-handed and managed to find a late equalizer. Unfortunately, despite La Pulga’s efforts, the team couldn’t secure a win in the remaining 45 minutes, resulting in them settling for a draw with the Rapids. The outcome adds further pressure on Tata Martino and the team to return to winning form.

READ MORE: Lionel Messi Brightens a Fan’s Evening as Inter Miami Fails to Secure a Win Over Colorado Rapids

The next fixture sees Inter Miami travel to face Monterrey for the second leg. Let’s hope they bounce back and also respond to the legal challenge presented by their upcoming rivals with a comeback.