9. He's Prone To Losing His Temper With Teammates And Opponents
Messi possesses one of the most impeccable public images in football. Carefully cultivated by himself and his team of advisors, theres very rarely any salacious gossip or on the pitch controversies that could potentially muddy the players brand. Yet occasionally the mask has been known to slip. Frustrations are known to mount. Theres this time he insulted the mother of a referee, or the time he allegedly racially taunted then-Hercules opponent Royston Drenthe. He has even been known to take his frustrations out on his teammates. Reports arose in 2013 suggesting the hitherto-angelic Messi liked to bully his teammates. Quotes published in Spains El Confidencial claimed hed reduced youngster Christian Tello to tears, as well as criticising Alexis Sanchez, apparently saying, Considering how bad you are, I've no idea how you cost so much," and, "Stop shooting so much and give me the ball." These claims are admittedly little more than hearsay. Similar rumours are rife in every dressing room. But Messi does have previous when it comes to abusing teammates. This video shows David Villa bearing the brunt of Messis frustrations, in an incident stemming from Villa electing to not pass the ball Messis way.
