FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi is often seen as a passive character, but, just like most players, he's also had his fair share of crazy moments. Here are the top five!
5. Kicks Ball Into Real Fans
In 2011, during a heated El Clasico against Real Madrid, a frustrated Messi attempted to keep a ball in the field of play, but, when he realised he couldn't, he smashed the ball directly at the Los Blancos supporters. Straight afterwards, Real defender Pepe stormed angrily towards the Argentine, who was getting all sorts of things thrown in his direction by the upset spectators.
4. Spits at Malaga Player
When he was just 21 years old, in a game in which Barcelona were taking on Malaga, Messi was caught in a moment of controversy when he apparently tried to spit at the opposition's winger, Duda.
3. Tries To Get Carvalho Sent Off
We rarely see the Little Maestro rolling about on the turf, so in 2010 Messi caught us all off-guard when it appeared he was trying to get Real Madrid's former centre back Ricardo Carvalho sent off. The Portuguese defender had raised his left elbow towards Messi's face and, following minimal contact, the Argentine fell to the floor with a rather late reaction.
2. Headbutts Shakhtar Player
In 2009, when Barcelona were hosting Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, Messi attempted to headbutt Darijo Srna in a moment of utter madness, and UEFA eventually took the matter further.
1. Loses Temper With Roma Defender
In August this year, during a pre-season friendly between the Blaugrana and Roma, the 28-year-old lost his cool with Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, and then headbutted and grabbed the defender by the throat. Messi's actions went unpunished, despite the referee standing no more than two metres away.
Can you name any other mad moments Messi has had?
