How many red cards has Messi received? This is a question that often comes up among football enthusiasts and analysts. Lionel Messi, the Argentine footballer, has been a key player for both his club, Barcelona, and his national team. Despite his exceptional skills and numerous accolades, Messi has faced disciplinary actions, including receiving red cards. In this article, we will explore the number of red cards Messi has received throughout his career and the circumstances surrounding them.
Lionel Messi has been a part of the football world since he was a young boy, and his talent has been evident from the start. Over the years, he has become one of the greatest footballers of all time, with numerous titles and records to his name. However, like any other player, Messi has faced moments of controversy on the pitch, leading to red card incidents.
As of now, Lionel Messi has received a total of three red cards in his professional career. The first red card came during his time at Barcelona, in a La Liga match against Real Madrid. The incident occurred in the 2010-2011 season, and Messi was sent off for a studs-up tackle on Cristiano Ronaldo. This red card was a significant moment in the rivalry between the two clubs and players.
The second red card came in a Champions League match against Benfica in the 2014-2015 season. Messi was shown a red card for a dangerous tackle on Oscar Cardozo, which led to a 2-0 victory for Barcelona. This red card was another controversial moment, as many fans and analysts believed it was a harsh decision by the referee.
The third and most recent red card came during the Copa America 2019 final between Argentina and Chile. Messi was sent off for a studs-up tackle on Chilean defender Gary Medel, which resulted in a 3-0 victory for Argentina. This red card was met with mixed reactions, with some fans and analysts praising Messi for his passion and others criticizing the referee for the decision.
While Messi has only received three red cards, it is important to note that these incidents have often been surrounded by controversy. Many believe that the Argentine star has been the victim of harsh decisions by referees, especially during high-stakes matches. Despite the criticism, Messi’s on-field brilliance has overshadowed the disciplinary issues, and he remains one of the most beloved and respected footballers in the world.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi has received a total of three red cards throughout his career. These incidents have often been surrounded by controversy, but they have not diminished his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. As Messi continues to play at the highest level, fans and analysts will undoubtedly continue to debate the number of red cards he has received and the impact they have had on his career.