By Abiola Olawale
Lionel Messi, the Barcelona and Argentine forward, was banned on Wednesday, for two matches after seeing his first red card in a Barcelona shirt, against Athletic Club.
The Spanish Football Federation announced on Tuesday that the six time Balloon d’or winner would be ban for two matches, following his rough tackle on Asier Villalibre, a player of Athletic Club.
The decision was made by the Centre refree, Jesus Gil Manzano and other officials who officiated the Spanish Super Cup final, gave a report concerning the event that led to Messi seeing red card.
The referee’s report said, “Striking an opponent with his arm with excessive force while the ball was in play but not within a playable distance.”
Ronald Koeman, the manager of Barcelona will play without the expertise of the club’s talisman, against Cornella and Elche on Thursday and Sunday respectively.
While responding to the ban, the Barcelona Football Club has said they will appeal the suspension given to the club’s talisman
The New Diplomat had reported on Wednesday that Messi could face a serious suspension after he was sent off in the final minute of the Supercopa de Espanan final against Athletic Club, hitting out at Asier Villalibre away from the ball.
