Leo Messi is set to make his return to action for Inter Miami in their MLS match against Colorado after a three-week absence, but all eyes are on the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final second leg against Monterrey. Tensions have escalated between Messi and the Monterrey coaching staff, particularly with coach Fernando Ortiz, following leaked recordings of an incident involving Messi confronting the referees during the first leg.
Monterrey has filed a complaint with the Football Federation of North and Central America, seeking sanctions against Messi for his behavior during the first leg. According to Monterrey's assistant coach Nico Sanchez, Messi wanted to engage in a physical altercation during the confrontation, but no physical contact occurred. The incident occurred when Sanchez approached Messi for a picture, and Messi, visibly agitated, proceeded to address the referees alongside his coach Tata Martino.
Sanchez described Messi's demeanor during the confrontation as intense, stating that Messi appeared furious and behaved aggressively. He also mentioned an exchange of words between himself and Martino, where Martino accused him of overreacting. Following the viral spread of the recording, Sanchez issued a public apology to Martino for his disrespectful remarks and acknowledged that his behavior was inappropriate.
The incident has heightened anticipation for the upcoming clash between Inter Miami and Monterrey, with tensions running high between Messi and the Monterrey camp. As both teams prepare for the crucial second leg, the fallout from the confrontation continues to draw attention and speculation within the football community.
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