Messi’s First Move After MLS Investigation
After being reviewed by the league for confronting referees following Inter Miami’s loss to Los Angeles FC, Lionel Messi made a decision that quickly drew attention.
Lionel Messi has never taken defeat lightly — not even on opening matchday. Following Inter Miami CF’s heavy 3-0 loss to Los Angeles FC, the Argentine star found himself under review by Major League Soccer after openly confronting the officiating crew.
The frustration was evident throughout the match. Messi struggled to make an impact, failing to register a single shot on target and receiving a low 5.1 rating from the BeSoccer app. Constantly marked and visibly irritated, he repeatedly voiced his complaints to referee Pierre-Luc Lauziere during and after the game.
Two viral videos amplified the situation. In one, teammate Luis Suárez appeared to hold Messi back as he angrily approached a restricted area inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. In another clip, Messi was seen walking ahead of the referees in the tunnel, continuing his protests.
According to journalist Michelle Kaufman of the Miami Herald, MLS reviewed footage of the incident and ultimately determined that Messi did not enter the referees’ locker room, closing the matter without further disciplinary action.
However, Messi’s immediate response spoke volumes. As reported by journalist Franco Panizo, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner chose not to speak to the Los Angeles media following the defeat — a clear sign of his displeasure. His frustration reportedly boiled over in the tunnel, where he delivered a blunt message to the officials: “You must show respect. It’s not the first time. Fans can say nonsense, but you cannot.”
