Lionel Messi called a 'dwarf' and 'possessed' from Monterrey coach after Inter Miami game (2024)

In a dramatic turn of events, Argentine football legend Lionel Messi found himself at the center of controversy about a fiery encounter between Inter Miami and Monterrey in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, reported by GOAL. The clash left both teams in a state of tension, with tempers flaring and accusations flying in the aftermath of Monterrey's 2-1 victory at Chase Stadium. Let's delve deeper into the unfolding drama.

Despite Lionel Messi's absence from the pitch during the first leg of the quarter-final clash, tensions soared as Inter Miami players, including Messi's teammates Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba, engaged in a heated exchange with Monterrey players and coaches. The altercation erupted following contentious decisions made during the match, prompting the Inter Miami players to confront match officials and Monterrey's coaching staff.

The situation was further inflamed by pre-game comments made by Monterrey boss Fernando Ortiz, insinuating that Inter Miami would benefit from favorable decisions if Messi were to play. This fueled the fire of the Inter Miami camp, leading to a confrontational atmosphere both on and off the pitch.

Audio footage leaked by FOX Sports MX shed light on the intensity of the confrontation, with Monterrey assistant coach Sanchez making downgrading remarks about Messi. Referring to Messi as a “dwarf” and claiming he appeared “possessed” with “the face of the devil,” Sanchez's comments added fuel to the already serious situation. The leaked audio captured the charged emotions and animosity between the two sides, further escalating the controversy.

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The leaked audio

After the argument, audio has been leaked through FOX Sports MX, with Sanchez saying: “The dwarf was possessed, he had the face of the devil. He put his fist next to my face and says: ‘Who do you think you are?’ But because I didn’t look at him, I was looking away, I never answered back, it made things worse. And Tata Martino, what a poor dummy, I had him in front of me telling me: ‘Fool, you going to cry? Fool you going to cry?’ What a dummy! All those videos, they probably erased them all because it leaves them looking bad. What they did was really serious. They want to dirty the pitch.”

In the aftermath of the heated exchange, Monterrey issued an apology, with assistant coach Sanchez expressing regret for some of his remarks, particularly those directed at Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino. However, tensions remain high as both clubs await potential disciplinary action from CONCACAF.

As Inter Miami prepares for the second leg of the quarter-final showdown against Monterrey, Messi is expected to feature prominently in the Herons' lineup. His return from injury in a recent MLS draw with the Colorado Rapids signals his readiness to lead his team on the field. With emotions still running high and the specter of controversy looming large, all eyes will be on the highly anticipated rematch between Inter Miami and Monterrey.

The fallout from the altercation has extended beyond the pitch, with discussions swirling around the broader implications of the incident. Questions have been raised about sportsmanship, respect between players and coaches, and the role of officials in maintaining order during heated exchanges. The controversy has reignited debates about player conduct and the responsibility of clubs and leagues to uphold standards of professionalism and integrity.

Implications for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami

For Messi and Inter Miami, the incident serves as a reminder of the pressures and challenges inherent in competitive sports. As one of the most recognizable figures in football, Messi's actions and interactions are subject to intense criticism, highlighting the delicate balance between personal emotions and professional obligations. Moving forward, both Messi and Inter Miami will need to navigate the aftermath of the controversy while maintaining focus on their upcoming matches and long-term goals.

The clash between Inter Miami and Monterrey has left a lasting impression on players, coaches, and fans alike. While tensions may have simmered since the initial confrontation, the reverberations of the incident continue to be felt throughout the football community. As the two teams prepare to face off once again, all eyes will be on the pitch as they strive to channel their energy and emotions into a display of skill, sportsmanship, and resilience.