In Miami’s latest game against Charlotte, Lionel Messi got upset with the referee. After the 1-1 draw, where they could have set an MLS record, Messi was clearly frustrated. He felt the ref’s calls disrupted Miami’s momentum. Messi also seemed annoyed the ref didn’t call fouls he thought were needed.

Inter Miami had to win on Sunday to break the MLS points record. They’ve been doing great since Lionel Messi joined back. But Charlotte FC played tough. They pressed Miami’s players early game and didn’t let them have much space or time on the ball. Even so, Messi still showed his talent. He scored a goal from outside the box, just a few minutes after Karol Świderski scored.

The breaking point came after a few wrong calls made by the referees. Miami players were visibly frustrated by some harsh treatment meted out by the officials. Messi, who never argues with referees in normal circumstances, could not remain silent this time. After a questionable no-call on a potential foul, Messi approached the referee heatedly, gesturing and asking for an explanation.

Leo went to the referee, Ramy Touchan, to whom he stood and spoke sharply: “You are a bad guy” repeated pointing at him. For this protest, he received a yellow card after the match was over. The penalty had been awarded against Paraguay for a foul on Diego Gómez. The VAR called out the referee correctly so that he withdrew the action because it was not a foul. 

What’s Next for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami?

With a draw, Inter Miami’s hopes of setting a new record in the MLS came to an end and now they are left with the task of winning all the remaining games to equal that record. While his passion and commitment to winning are unquestioned, this rare public display of frustration shows how much they wanted to break that record.

The incident also prompts questions about how Messi is adapting to the physicality and referee standards in the MLS. In contrast to Europe or international play, where referees may protect star players from aggressive fouls, the officials in the MLS may allow a more physical style of play that Messi may still be getting used to. 

In the end, while Messi’s anger grabbed headlines, it was a reflection of a tough night for Inter Miami. With several crucial games ahead, one against Columbus Crew on Wednesday and another away at Toronto, all eyes will be on how Messi and his teammates respond.