Video: Lionel Messi given a straight red card for violent conduct

The Argentine received the first red card of his entire Barcelona career late in the club’s Spanish Super Cup final defeat.

Gil Manzano became the first referee to show Lionel Messi a red card in Barcelona colors after Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final against Athletic Club Bilbao.

Towards the end of extra-time, and with Barcelona on the brink of a surprise defeat, Messi lost his cool and took a swing at Asier Villalibre as the Athletic striker crossed his path.

After a VAR review, Manzano gave the 33-year-old his marching orders for violent conduct.

Messi sees red for an off-the-ball swing. pic.twitter.com/PAW8cm95OR

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 17, 2021

Opta states it was the first red card of Messi’s entire Barcelona career in 753 appearances. It capped off yet another frustrating night in what has proven to be a tough season for the club and player.

Antoine Griezmann put the Blaugrana in front twice only for Oscar de Marcos and Villalibre to equalize. Then, in the 94th-minute of the final, Inaki Williams struck to hand Athletic a 3-2 win and a third Spanish Super Cup title.

Messi, meanwhile, could reportedly face at least a four-match ban for his conduct on Sunday.