Argentina’s Lionel Messi has been banned from playing international matches for Argentina for a period of three months, according to news reaching us at OccupyGh.com
Lionel Messi’s three month banned is due from an alleged corruption at Copa America which surfaced last month.
Earlier news reported that South American football body, CONMEBOL handed Messi a $50,000 fine for a comment he made after Argentina won 2-1 against Chile during the third-place playoff of the tournament which was held in Brazil.
During the match against Chile, Messi was red carded, making it the second time in his career.
A brawl broke with Chile star player, Gary Medel who was eventually sent off as well.
Messi avoided the medal ceremony in protest and later said Argentina “shouldn’t take part in this corruption”.
The Argentinian also said the tournament was set for hosts Brazil, who beat Argentina in the semi-finals, to win.
He had also complained against Copa America refereeing after Argentina’s 0-2 loss to Brazil in the semifinals.
The governing body at the time called the accusations “groundless” and “unacceptable.”
Messi and Argentina still have one week to appeal the decision, which stops the forward from featuring again for his country this year.
The 32-year-old, who also captains FC Barcelona, will not play for Argentina in September against Chile and Mexico, or in another two games in October.
Neither Messi nor Argentina’s football association has made comments about CONMEBOL’s decision.
Messi has already been fined $1,500 and is suspended from the first match of the South American World Cup qualifiers next March, for his Copa America red card.
When asked if he feared being suspended for his comments, he said: “The truth needed to be told.”
Messi has since then sent an apology to CONMEBOL for his remarks.
Source: OccupyGh.com
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