Lionel Messi has been banned from international football for three months after claiming the Copa America was “corrupt”.
Argentinan captain Messi, accused CONMEBOL, the South American football governing body of corruption after he was sent off against Chile in the third-place playoff match during the tournament in Brazil.
Messi expressed his anger after Argentina was defeated 2-0 by Brazil in the semi-final game of the tournament.
“Serious and gross refereeing errors,” said Messi.
Later, during the third place match with Chile, the player was shown a red card after a clash with Gary Medel, who was later dismissed too.
“We don’t have to be part of this corruption.They have shown us a lack of respect throughout this tournament,” the Argentinian captain said.
Lionel Messi has been fined $50,000 (£41,121) and have seven days to appeal Conmebol’s decision to suspend him.
Due to the ban, Messi will miss friendlies against Chile, Mexico, and Germany in September and October. He will also be not able to play the first 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification match.
