Lionel Messi Fined by MLS for Grabbing NYCFC Assistant Coach's Neck

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount by Major League Soccer (MLS) for grabbing the neck of New York City FC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy.

The incident occurred following a 2-2 draw in Miami on February 22, 2025. Video footage shows Messi approaching Ballouchy and placing his hand on the back of the coach's neck, causing Ballouchy to pull away. The MLS Disciplinary Committee announced the fine on Tuesday, citing a violation of the league's policy against making contact with an opponent's face, head, or neck. 

In a related incident during halftime of the same match, Messi's teammate Luis Suárez was also fined for pinching the neck of New York City FC defender Birk Risa. Both players' actions were deemed in violation of MLS's "hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent" policy. 

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano defended Messi, suggesting that the media exaggerated the situation. He emphasized the difficulty of controlling emotions during intense matches and criticized the press for sensationalizing the incident. 

Despite the fines, both Messi and Suárez are expected to participate in Inter Miami's upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Sporting Kansas City. The team aims to advance further in the tournament following the recent draw in their MLS opener.