Lionel Messi controversy explained after football icon fired Inter Miami to another trophy
Lionel Messi has been accused of breaching MLS rules after firing Inter Miami to glory in the Supporters' Shield earlier this week
REUTERS
Lionel Messi has been accused of breaching MLS rules after firing Inter Miami to glory in the Supporters' Shield earlier this week.
The Argentina international netted twice as his side beat Columbus Crew, with Messi picking up his second trophy over in the United States.
After the victory, Messi and his Inter Miami team-mates surrounded the shield in their dressing room.
One image shared on social media showed the veteran with a bottle of his Mas+ sports drink in one hand as he enjoyed the celebrations.
Lionel Messi has been accused of breaching MLS rules after firing Inter Miami to glory in the Supporters' Shield earlier this week
REUTERS
This, however, has raised eyebrows.
Given the MLS's corporate sponsors is rival drinks brand BODYARMOR, some have accused Messi of breaking the rules.
Inter Miami podcast co-host Franco Panizo even fuelled the controversy by saying: "Double-whammy [though have to imagine MLS sponsor Body Armor will not be pleased]."
According to SportsBible, however, there is no conflict of interest regarding the bottle of Mas+.
It's claimed that though BODYARMOR are an MLS partner, clubs and players are allowed to have 'respective caregory sponsors of their own'.
Messi's second triumph in America comes after he helped Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup last year.
Though the 37-year-old is approaching the twilight stages of his career, he's continued to produce magic over in the United States.
He has 19 goals from 20 games in 2024 so far - and also remains a vital player for Argentina, too.
Inter Miami are 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 side's triumph.
"So proud to see our players lift the Supporters Shield after a great win in Columbus," he wrote.
"Another amazing achievement in the history of this football club and so happy to bring this trophy to the best fans in the League.
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Lionel Messi held his own drink in his hand after Inter Miami won the Supporters' Shield
"Now we go again and onto the next one."
As for Messi, the veteran was keen to avoid getting carried away with Inter Miami still hoping to secure glory in the MLS Cup later in the year.
"The first objective has been achieved and now we have to think about what's next," he said.
"The first round is three games but then it's one game and anything can happen.
Lionel Messi has won two trophies during his time at Inter Miami
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"But we have the great advantage of playing all the games at home, which is what we were looking for.
"We are very strong at home."