Lionel Messi slams MLS injury rule during Inter Miami’s clash with Montreal

Lionel Messi expressed his frustration with an MLS rule regarding injuries during Inter Miami’s recent win against Montreal, Soccernet.football reports.

Since joining last summer, Messi has seamlessly adapted to playing in the United States, delivering standout performances for Inter Miami in MLS.

With 23 goal contributions in just 11 matches this season, he has rediscovered his top form after a mixed spell with Paris Saint-Germain.

However, not all aspects of American football have been smooth for Messi. During the match against CF Montreal, he encountered one of the league’s peculiar rules.

In Europe, injured players typically wait 30 seconds on the sideline before returning to play after receiving treatment. Yet, in the MLS, Messi discovered a different protocol.

Following an injury just before half-time, Messi was required to wait on the touchline for two minutes, per MLS rules, rather than the usual 30 seconds in European football.

The MLS regulation mandates that players with suspected injuries remain off the field for a minimum of two minutes for further assessment and treatment.

Messi’s frustration was evident as he aired his grievances toward the camera, criticizing the MLS rule and expressing dismay about its impact on football in the United States.

Despite his discontent, Messi’s focus remained on returning to the match to help his team, especially as they trailed 2-0 at the time.

Fortunately for Messi and Inter Miami, the game’s dynamics swiftly changed. Within five minutes of his frustration, Miami scored twice through Matias Rojas and Luis Suarez, leveling the score.

They then secured a winning goal in the second half, with Benjamin Cremaschi finding the net in the 59th minute. This victory maintains Miami’s position at the top of the league standings.