Lionel Messi told what 'minimum' punishment to expect for neck grab by former referee as Inter Miami superstar sweats on sanction

After Inter Miami drew 2-2 with New York City FC over the weekend, Messi was spotted arguing with referee Alexis Da Silva - something he was booked for - and then proceeded to grab New York FC coach Nehdi Ballouchy by the back of the neck. Now, former English referee Keith Hackett says he would be "amazed" if the Argentine gets a ban, but does expect the 37-year-old to be fined.

Hackett told Football Insider: “The MLS deal with all disciplinary matters in their competition. Operating out of their offices in the Avenue of the Americas, a small panel on Monday reviews all disciplinary matters. This player [Lionel Messi] like any other player will be dealt with today (February 24). I expect the minimum of a fine. It is the start of the season and they will want their star players to be in the fields, not in the stands. From a personal point of view, placing your hands on an official is a big no-no and really should see the player receiving a three-match ban. I will be amazed if that were to happen to Messi.”

Tempers were clearly high as Miami began their Major League Soccer campaign in dramatic fashion - both during and after the game. It remains to be seen if their talisman Messi is suspended, as that would be a huge blow to the Herons.

Messi's Miami are next in action on Wednesday when they take on Kansas City in the second leg of their first-round CONCACAF Champions Cup tie.