Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi received a fine from Major League Soccer following an incident during the team’s 2-2 draw against the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday. The 39-year-old struck Sullivan around the back of the head late in the match while disputing a previous play, claiming Sullivan had elbowed him after he released the ball. Sullivan responded with visible anger to the contact, though the referee intervened before the situation escalated further. The league confirmed the disciplinary action against Messi but did not disclose the fine amount.
Messi’s teammate Ian Fray also drew a fine from MLS for a separate altercation with Sullivan during the same contest. Fray grabbed Sullivan’s neck after the pair became entangled when Sullivan fell in the penalty area. The match concluded with two red card dismissals issued in stoppage time, sending off Miami’s Yannick Bright and Cavan Sullivan, the Union player’s brother. Cavan’s subsequent one-game suspension was later rescinded following a review process.
Despite the disciplinary matters, Messi scored Miami’s second goal at Subaru Park, marking his first goal since returning to action following his father’s death. The player had been in Argentina attending his father’s funeral. Jorge Messi, 68, who also served as his son’s agent, died after an extended illness. Following the loss of his father, Messi offered comments suggesting his playing career may not continue for an extended period.
Miami currently holds the second position in the Eastern Conference standings, trailing first-place Nashville by seven points.
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