Lionel Messi found himself at the centre of controversy after Inter Miami’s exit from the Club World Cup on Sunday. A video has surfaced online where Messi is seen swinging his arm at Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha in frustration. The act drew accusations of poor sportsmanship. 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.
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Despite the heated exchange, the two stars seemed to make amends after the final whistle, with PSG later sharing a photo of Messi and Vitinha embracing
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Fans react to Messi’s act on field
Messi’s history with Vitinha
The moment also raised eyebrows, particularly given the duo’s shared history at PSG, where reports had previously suggested friction between them. Although Vitinha publicly denied any past conflict.
Vitinha, now a pivotal figure under Luis Enrique, has become a cornerstone in PSG’s midfield and was instrumental in their 2024–25 treble-winning campaign.
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After Inter Miami’s exit from Club World Cup, Messi will shift his focus back to MLS. PSG now prepares for a high-stakes quarter-final clash against the winner of Bayern Munich vs. Flamengo
PSG vs Inter Miami highlights
Joao Neves scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) swept aside Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami 4-0 at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday. The French side got the opening goal within six minutes, with Neves unmarked on the far post powering home a precise header from a free kick.