The incident between Lionel Messi and Welington during Barcelona’s draw against Málaga offers a rare but revealing glimpse into a more combative side of the Argentine star — a side that often goes unnoticed amid his on-field brilliance.
⚔️ The Altercation
In the tense match, Messi and Welington got into a heated exchange, culminating in the Málaga defender grabbing Messi by the throat — an action that earned him a yellow card. After the game, Welington claimed that Messi had insulted him, specifically calling him a “son of a bitch,” which provoked his reaction.
📰 Spanish Press Reaction
This clash has stirred controversy in the Spanish media, largely because Messi is often portrayed as a model of composure and humility, rarely seen reacting emotionally or engaging in trash talk. But as this situation suggests, even the most admired athletes have moments where their temperament is tested.
🎭 The Duality of Messi
While Messi is not known for consistent aggression or disrespect, this incident reminds us that he is not flawless or immune to emotional outbursts — especially in the heat of a competitive match. It also highlights a broader truth in football: even the most disciplined players can sometimes step out of line.
⚖️ Bottom Line
Messi remains one of the greatest players in football history — but like any human, he has his flaws. Incidents like these don’t define him, but they do add depth to his personality, reminding fans and critics alike that no one, not even Messi, is perfect.