Lionel Messi Accused of ‘Trying to Punch’ PSG Player During Heavy Inter Miami Loss

Lionel Messi crashed out of the FIFA Club World Cup as his Inter Miami side were soundly beaten 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in the first knockout round. The Argentine was instrumental in getting his team through the group phase, but frustrations appear to have gotten the better of him in the Round of 16.

Despite his best efforts, the 38-year-old playmaker was unable to inspire his team to threaten his old club as the Parisians progressed with ease. As pointed out by French media in the aftermath of the match, Messi was the biggest threat and source of magic for the MLS side.

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He came closest to beating Gianluigi Donnarumma with a second-half header amid late pressure, but Inter Miami were firmly second-best throughout the encounter. Footage has emerged online of an example of the Barcelona legend’s exasperation getting the better of him.

Lionel Messi ‘Tried to Punch’ Former PSG Teammate

The Argentine appeared to take a swing at Vitinha

With the European champions passing around their opponents at will during the contest in Atlanta, it’s understandable that the greatest player of all time wouldn’t be too happy at things not going his way. In years gone by, Messi would be on the team toying with the opposition, passing them to death.

However, his inexperience on the receiving end didn’t serve him well when he appeared to lash out in the direction of old PSG teammate Vitinha. Footage emerged online with fans speculating that Messi ‘tried to punch’ the Portuguese sensation. Watch the video below:

The video above shows Vitihna spinning away from Messi, who was trying to apply pressure. When the PSG star gets away and releases the ball to a teammate, Messi’s right hand swings up towards his face but fails to connect.

Reddit users were quick to respond to the footage, with one pointing out: “I’ll never understand frustration to the point of trying to punch someone. Vitinha is a chill guy,” and a second fan saying: “Messi was always a sore loser.”

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Messi spent two disappointing years in the French capital, and as a result, shared a dressing room with Vitinha. The Portugal international has rocketed to the very top of the game with his impressive Champions League performances this term, but was once a Wolves flop.

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During their time as teammates, it was initially reported that Messi told Vitinha (per L’Equipe): “Not only are you weak, but you’re hurting me,” during a training ground altercation. However, the now 25-year-old midfielder dismissed reports of a bust-up on social media. He posted on X (formerly Twitter):

Even after the game on Sunday evening, things appeared to be fine between the pair as Vitinha embraced the Argentine icon at full-time. Whether things got heated on the pitch or not, both men showed respect after the match was over.

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