Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi saw red but only earned a yellow card after a furious bust-up with a referee, before grabbing an assistant coach by the neck in a fiery MLS clash with New York City FC.

Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano has praised his team for its "soul" after it overcame a first-half red card to earn a draw against New York City FC at Chase Stadium on Saturday to kick off the 2025 MLS season.

Lionel Messi was involved in two heated confrontations following Inter Miami's 2-2 draw with New York City FC on Saturday night, including grabbing an opposing coach by the neck. The Argentine star first engaged in an angry exchange with referee Rosendo Mendoza,

Lionel Messi is usually known for keeping his cool - but the Inter Miami megastar couldn't stop himself after Saturday's draw with New York City FC as he fumed at the referee and argued with a coach

Lionel Messi was visibly frustrated with the officiating after Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw against New York City. Despite providing two assists and delivering a solid performance, the Argentine superstar lost his cool following the final whistle.