Tensions flared following the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final between Inter Miami and Monterrey. After the final whistle, a clash erupted in the tunnel as Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Luis Suarez, and Inter Miami coach Tata Martino reportedly confronted several Monterrey players.
At the center of the controversy is Nico Sanchez, assistant coach for Monterrey. Leaked audio captured Sanchez using inflammatory language towards Messi, calling him a “possessed dwarf” with the “face of the devil.” Despite issuing a public apology, Sanchez notably omitted mentioning Messi by name. Instead, his regret focused on disrespectful comments made towards Inter Miami coach Tata Martino.
This selective apology has drawn criticism, leaving the question unanswered: will Sanchez apologize directly to Messi? The heated exchange and Sanchez’s remarks have certainly added fuel to the fire of this CONCACAF Champions League rivalry.
