Former Barcelona stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez were fined for their action in Inter Miami's draw vs. NYCFC in their opening game of the 2025 MLS season.

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer following a controversial exchange at the end of the match against New York City FC. Lionel Messi started the year in top form, scoring two goals and providing two assists in three matches for Inter Miami.

Miami, who is coming off the first leg of its CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 matchup with Cavalier, started off the season with a hard-fought 2-2 draw with New York City FC. Then, on the road last Sunday, Luis Suarez and Telasco Segovia led the charge in a 4-1 thrashing of the Houston Dynamo.

Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano said he is optimistic Lionel Messi could make the roster for the match against Charlotte FC on Sunday night at Chase Stadium, though added he was unwilling to take unnecessary risks with the star player.

Lionel Messi is feeling “much better” with a possibility he could play for Inter Miami on Sunday against Charlotte FC, coach Javier Mascherano said.

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi returned to the club's training sessions Saturday, a potentially positive sign for the team ahead of its clash against Charlotte FC Sunday. The Herons manager Javier Mascherano is hopeful of a return of his star player but insisted he will be cautious in determining if the 37-year-old can play.