Lionel Messi fined for violently grabbing coach’s neck

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount by the Major League Soccer (MLS) Disciplinary Committee.

The fine comes after Messi was found guilty of grabbing a New York City FC coach by the neck following Saturday’s MLS season opener, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Video footage showed Messi approaching the coach and grabbing the back of his neck, prompting the coach to pull away.

The incident occurred after the final whistle, and the MLS Disciplinary Committee took swift action, issuing the fine on Tuesday.

Messi’s teammate, Luis Suárez, was also fined on the same day for violating the league’s policy on contact with the face, head, or neck of an opponent.

During halftime, Suárez pinched the back of Norwegian defender Birk Risa’s neck.

The fines come as Inter Miami prepares to face Sporting KC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

The Messi fact-file

Messi, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time.

His career is marked by extraordinary achievements, records, and accolades, spanning over two decades at the highest level of the sport.

Messi began his football journey at a young age, joining Newell’s Old Boys in his hometown before moving to FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy at 13.

His early years at Barcelona were shaped by his exceptional talent, and he made his first-team debut in 2004 at just 17 years old.

Messi quickly established himself as a key player, forming part of Barcelona’s legendary “MSN” trio with Luis Suárez and Neymar, and becoming the face of the club.

During his 17-year tenure at Barcelona, Messi won an unprecedented 35 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles, 7 Copa del Rey titles, and 4 UEFA Champions League titles.

He also won the Ballon d’Or a record 7 times (as of 2023), cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in history.

Messi’s individual records at Barcelona are staggering: he is the club’s all-time top scorer with 672 goals and the all-time top scorer in La Liga with 474 goals.

He has since played for Paris Saint Germaine and Inter Miami, presently.

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