31 August 2023 , 10:03
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Major League Soccer has insisted that Lionel Messi did not break league rules after his goal streak came to an end.
The Argentine has been a major hit since his move to the States. Since his arrival on a free transfer from French giants Paris Saint-Germain, he has lifted the Leagues Cup.
His goalscoring form has also been stunning. He already has 11 goals in just 10 games in all competitions, whilst he also scored on his MLS debut in a 2-0 win against New York Red Bulls. Messi wasn’t quite able to continue that scintillating form having fired a blank in the recent 0-0 draw against Nashville.
Following that game, Messi seemingly appeared to ignore league rules. MLS rules dictate that every player must be made available to speak to the press after each match.
Teams, however, can get around this by offering open dressing room access - or bringing out certain players for interviews and press conferences. There is understandably a clamour to speak to Messi but he was not available after the clash against Nashville.
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Despite that, the league has confirmed that he did not break any rules. A statement earlier this week read: “There was a misunderstanding regarding Lionel Messi ’s media access. He has not violated any guidelines for his media availability in Major League Soccer.”
Lionel Messi failed to score in Inter Miami's showdown with Nashville (Getty Images)How many goals will Messi score before the end of the season? Share your thoughts in the comments below
It is not the first time that Messi has skipped media commitments, having also done the same against the New York Red Bulls. Whilst the forward himself has not yet spoken, USMNT boss Gregg Berhalter has discussed his impact and has been taken aback.
He said: “You have this idea of what it could be, of what MLS is, and then you totally break the mould by getting someone like Messi and taking it to a different level. It’s been amazing exposure.
“Overall, it’s just blown me away the impact that Lionel Messi can have. And not only him but when you bring (Sergio) Busquets and (Jordi) Alba into it, how it can translate onto the field.”
Messi will be aiming to get back on the scoresheet in his next outing for Miami. They are next back in action on Monday evening as they tackle Los Angeles FC before the league takes a break for the international fixtures.
World Cup winners Argentina take on Ecuador next Thursday in a 2026 World Cup qualifier before tackling Bolivia a few days later. Messi hinted that he would retire after helping the South American side to the trophy in Qatar, however is yet to officially hang up his boots.