'The God of Soccer Who Lost His Temper' Messi, Blows the Back of a 22-Year-Old Rival's Head... Receives 'Assault Penalty' in Return Match After Father's Funeral... MLS Orders "Pay Fine"

*This content was translated by AI.

Lionel Messi (39, Inter Miami) was issued a post-match fine by Major League Soccer (MLS) for assaulting an opposing player during a game.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee officially announced on the 22nd that it imposed a fine on Messi for violating regulations during the 21st round of the 2026 regular season match against Philadelphia Union, which took place on the 20th (Korea time).

The specific amount of the fine has not been disclosed, and no suspension was included, so there will be no obstacle to his participation in the next match.

The incident occurred just before the end of the match, during stoppage time in the second half, when both teams were locked in a frustrating 2-2 tie. While engaging in a fierce challenge with Philadelphia's Quinn Sullivan (22), Messi protested after Sullivan raised his elbow high, leading to a heated exchange. As the tension escalated, Messi lost control of his emotions and swung his hand at Sullivan's head and neck area while the ball was not in play.

At the time, the referee could not see the strike due to an obstructed view and did not pull out a card. However, broadcast footage showing the violent act spread immediately after the match, and the MLS office confirmed the post-match penalty after reviewing video replay.

Meanwhile, Messi delivered an outstanding performance in his return match following his father's funeral, including scoring a goal, but lost his composure at the end of the game, committing a violent act that left him with a blemish on his record.

In addition to Messi, four players from Inter Miami, including Ian Fray, were included in the disciplinary list for various rule violations on this day.

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*This content was translated by AI.