Five-time World Player of the Year Award winner, Lionel Messi is set to avoid any punishment from the European governing body, UEFA, despite being involved in two separate bust-ups during the clash with Manchester City this week.
At Tuesday’s Champions League game at the Etihad, Barcelona were served a sweet revenge by Manchester City, having suffered defeat from the Catalan giants a fortnight ago. Barca players were fuming and City players and lower management staff provoked their guests into a bust-up.
UEFA has confirmed that since the incident were not put in the referee or match delegate report, there would be no repercussions. During the 15 minutes recess, Messi confronted the referee, Viktor Kassai in the tunnel. He was involved in the bust-up after the game, and his compatriot Sergio Aguero had to calm him down.
“Nothing was mentioned in the official reports. Therefore no disciplinary action has been taken,” UEFA said.
Many remain surprised at Messi’s reactions after the game, particularly as Barcelona were sill topping the group despite the loss. Aguero explained that the player was just not happy with the loss.
“We haven’t talked. Whenever you lose you’re not very happy. I know him well enough to know when he’s bad, when he’s good. Leo wasn’t in the mood to talk and I respect that,” the Man City talisman disclosed.
The Argentine forward was the standout star at the last meeting at the Nou Camp. He got the match opener at the Etihad but the attacking style of City helped them upturn an impending home loss. IIkay Gundogan grabbed a brace and Kevin De Bruyne scored a free-kick to end the game 3-1. It was the first victory for Man City over Barcelona after six attempts. Guardiola has received a lot of praise for the win.