Barça defend Messi over "totally disproportionate" ban
Barcelona released an official statement on Wednesday, condemning FIFA's decision to ban Lionel Messi for four matches for insulting a linesman.
Barcelona have reacted to Lionel Messi’s ban, a day after FIFA hit the Argentine with a four game international ban for directing insulting comments at the linesman following Argentina’s victory over Chile.
"Unjust and totally disproportionate"
The Catalan club released the following statement:
“FC Barcelona expresses its surprise and indignation at the FIFA Disciplinary Commission’s decision to sanction Leo Messi, after the World Cup qualifier between Argentina and Chile. The club considers the sanction of four matches imposed on the player to be unjust and totally disproportionate. Finally, FC Barcelona wants to reiterate its support for Leo Messi, an exemplary sportsman on and off the pitch.”
Historic support for Messi
This is not the first time that Barça have offered Messi their unconditional support. In July, after the Argentine was sentenced to 21 months in prison for fraud, the club released an official statement in support of Messi and his father, Jorge. Days later, Barça offered further support to the player through social media, using the hashtag #TodosSomosLeoMessi.
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