What Lionel Messi said in heated MLS Referee exchange revealed

What Lionel Messi had said to the referee who officiated the MLS fixture Inter Miami vs New York City FC has been revealed in recent reports.

Former Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi had a few words to say to the referee who had officiated the MLS fixture against New York City FC involving his side, Inter Miami.

The Argentine superstar provided two assists for the Herons in an eventful 2-2 draw in what many have categorised as an eventful game against New York City FC at Chase Stadium. The dramatic match saw Inter Miami reduced to 10 men midway through the first half, with a last-gasp equalizer arriving in the 100th minute.

During the heated encounter, Messi grabbed a member of New York City's coaching staff by the neck after previously clashing with referee Alexis Da Silva, who booked him for dissent.

The booking came after Messi protested a decision that saw Tomas Avilés sent off just 18 minutes after scoring the opener. Several other contentious calls fueled Messi’s frustration, leaving the Inter Miami captain visibly furious by the final whistle.

What did Lionel Messi say to the MLS referee?

As reported by TyC Sports, which employed a lip reader, Messi reportedly shouted “you’re a coward” at Da Silva while expressing his frustration with the officiating during Inter Miami's match. He had more to say but deliberately covered his mouth with his hand.

It remains to be seen if Lionel Messi will be fined or sanctioned for the statement the World Cup winner had said to the referee directly.

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