MLS: Lionel Messi sanctioned after slapping an opponent

Lionel Messi has been sanctioned by Major League Soccer (MLS) following an outburst during the 2-2 draw between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union on Wednesday.

In the final minutes of the match, the Argentinian striker confronted Quinn Sullivan. Visibly unhappy after contact between the two players, Messi slapped the Philadelphia midfielder on the back of the head. Sullivan immediately reacted, sparking a brief altercation before the referee intervened.

MLS has confirmed the existence of a financial penalty against Messi, without specifying the amount of the fine.

The Argentinian world champion had nevertheless made a strong impression on the pitch by scoring Inter Miami's second goal. This achievement had particular significance as it came after his return from Argentina, where he had attended the funeral of his father, Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 after a long illness.

Messi wasn't the only Miami player penalized following the incidents. His teammate Ian Fray was also fined for grabbing Sullivan by the neck after the latter fell in the penalty area.

The end of the match was particularly tense, with two players sent off in stoppage time. Yannick Bright, of Inter Miami, and Cavan Sullivan, Quinn's brother, were both shown red cards. However, the one-match suspension initially handed down to Cavan Sullivan was overturned after a review of the case.

On the sporting front, Inter Miami remains well placed in the MLS race and currently occupies second position in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leader Nashville.

Back in Florida after his time in Argentina, Messi is continuing his season in a unique context. The death of his father, who was also his agent, has deeply affected him. In a recent tribute, the Argentine star even hinted that this ordeal could influence his thinking about the future of his career.