close
close

The Lionel Messi controversy was explained after the football icon helped propel Inter Miami to another trophy

The Lionel Messi controversy was explained after the football icon helped propel Inter Miami to another trophy

Lionel Messi has been accused of breaching MLS rules after dismissing Inter Miami to Supporters’ Shield glory earlier this week.

The Argentina international scored twice in his side’s win over Columbus Crew, with Messi lifting his second trophy in the US.


After the win, Messi and his Inter Miami teammates surrounded the sign in their dressing room.

A picture shared on social media showed the veteran holding a bottle of his Mas+ sports drink as he enjoyed the celebrations.

Lionel Messi has been accused of breaching MLS rules after dismissing Inter Miami to Supporters’ Shield glory earlier this week

REUTERS

However, this has raised eyebrows.

Since MLS’s corporate sponsor is rival drinks brand BODYARMOR, some have accused Messi of breaking the rules.

Franco Panizo, co-host of the Inter Miami podcast, even fueled the controversy by saying, “Double whammy.” [though have to imagine MLS sponsor Body Armor will not be pleased].”

However, according to SportsBible, there is no conflict of interest regarding the Mas+ bottle.

JUST IN: Marcus Rashford makes his feelings clear after Erik ten Hag’s controversial decision in Man Utd’s draw with Porto

It claims that while BODYARMOR is an MLS partner, clubs and players are allowed to have “their own sponsors in the respective category.”

Messi’s second triumph in America comes after helping Inter Miami win the League Cup last year.

Despite approaching the twilight of his career, the 37-year-old has continued to make magic in the United States.

He has scored 19 goals from 20 games so far in 2024 – and remains an important player for Argentina.

READ MORE: Michael Schumacher’s family must deny rumors about F1 icon’s condition as he makes ‘public appearance’

Inter Miami is co-owned by David Beckham.

And the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star sent a touching message to Messi after his team’s triumph.

“So proud to see our players lifting the Supporters Shield after a great win in Columbus,” he wrote.

“Another amazing achievement in the history of this football club and I am delighted to present this trophy to the best fans in the league.”

CURRENT SPORTS NEWS:

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi held his own drink after Inter Miami won the Supporters’ Shield

INSTAGRAM

“Now let’s go again and move on to the next one.”

As for Messi, the veteran didn’t want to get carried away by Inter Miami, who are still hoping to secure MLS Cup glory later in the year.

“The first goal has been achieved and now we have to think about what comes next,” he said.

“The first round is three games, but then it’s one game and anything can happen.”

Lionel Messi Inter Miami

Lionel Messi has won two trophies during his time at Inter Miami

REUTERS

“But we have the great advantage of being able to play all the games at home, which is what we wanted.”

“We are very strong at home.”

Related Post