Messi Banned from Playing International Football for 3 Months

Star footballer Leonel Messi has been barred from playing international football for the next three months, owing to his accusations of corruption on Copa America 2019. The Argentinian player has also been fined $50,000 for levying the allegations that were ‘unfounded’ by Conmebol.

Messi and Argentina’s football association has seven days to appeal against the decision by Conmebol, however as of now both the parties have remained silent on the matter.

After Argentina’s s 2-1 win against Chile in the third-place playoff of the tournament in July, the star footballer had remarked that the Copa America was corrupt and Argentina “shouldn’t take part in this corruption”. Messi had also boycotted medal ceremony as a protest.

The forward player once again accused the tournament organizers for setting up the tournament for hosts Brazil to win after Argentina’s 2-0 defeat against Brazil in semi-finals.

“We don’t have to be part of this corruption,” Messi said. “They have showed us a lack of respect throughout this tournament.

“Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit,” he had added.

Owing to the ban, Messi will not be able to play for Argentina in September against Chile and Mexico. Furthermore the 32-year old will also miss another two matches in October against Germany and another opponent to be decided.