MLS fines Messi after Philadelphia Union draw, amount undisclosed | OneFootball

Lionel Messi has been fined by MLS following Inter Miami's ill-tempered draw with Philadelphia Union, with the amount undisclosed.

The incident came late on as tempers flared. MLS said Messi breached the rule banning hand contact to an opponent's face, head or neck.

After reviewing the footage, the Disciplinary Committee imposed a financial penalty and stopped short of a suspension for the Inter Miami captain.

Team-mate Ian Fray received a separate fine for a similar action in the closing moments. Philadelphia Union had Cavan Sullivan's red card overturned on appeal.

The decision has stirred debate about the treatment afforded to the league's biggest name.

Since arriving in the United States, several of Messi's incidents have been examined by the league, keeping the world champion in the spotlight.

The sporting impact is minimal, and he will be available for Inter Miami's next games. The side coached by Javier Mascherano continue to lean on his influence as they seek to remain among the title contenders.

Source: Superdeporte

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