Lionel Messi Handed 2-Match Ban

Barcelona captain, Lionel Messi has been handed a two-match ban following his dismissal in the Spanish Super Cup final for a foul on Asier Villalibre in extra-time as Athletic Bilbao went on to win the Cup.

Barcelona has announced that they will appeal the decision for the two-match ban.

ℹ️ FC Barcelona to appeal Messi suspension

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 19, 2021

Messi 33, got his first red card in his senior club career on Sunday in the Supercopa final against Bilbao when referee Gil Manzano gave the Argentine his walking order.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation RFEF met on Tuesday and deemed the challenge worthy of a two-match ban.

The referee’s report describes the motivation: "Striking an opponent with his arm with excessive force while the ball was in play but not within a playable distance.”

The 6-time Balon d'Or winner will miss Thursday trip to Cornella in the Copa del Rey and Sunday's match against Elche in the La Liga.

READ ALSO: Spanish Super Cup: Athletic Stun Barca To Win Cup, Messi Sent Off

If Barcelona progress in the Copa del Rey he will be ready for the last 16 tie and ready as Camp Nou welcomes Athletic in La Liga.

In his entire career, Messi has been dismissed thrice - twice on international duty except his match for Barca B against Pena Sport in February 2005.