Lionel Messi has been labelled as a ‘shameless traitor’ by angry Barcelona fans

Lionel Messi has been branded as a shameless traitor by angry Barcelona fans after the Catalan giants' clash against Inter Milan in the Champions League. 

This came in the aftermath of the dramatic draw between two of Europe’s biggest clubs at the Camp Nou. Barcelona fans spotted that Messi had liked an Instagram picture posted by Inter’s Lautaro Martinez, which had a caption that read: “Heart, Personality, Humility and Forza Inter.”

As expected, Barcelona fans were not happy when they saw Messi liking the post, especially with the fact that Xavi’s side are now likely to be eliminated in the group stage of the Champions League for a second year running. 

Fans were quick to show their discontent towards the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. 

Instagram

One said: “Another proof that Messi does not feel sorry for Barcelona a club that made him who he is today and then later he broke the club and ran away, he is such a shameless traitor.” 

Another tweeted: “This is what I mean when I say this guy was a mercenary.” 

A third fan went even further and told the club to not welcome him back, the fan said: “Fraud. Don’t welcome him back.” 

Whilst many other Barcelona fans simply labelled the Argentina legend as ‘Judas’ and ‘traitor’. 

Perhaps it was a badly timed ‘like’ by Messi but at the same time, it can be understood as both Messi and Martinez play for the Argentinian national team. 

During his time with Barcelona, Messi quickly established himself as a key player and developed into one of the best players to ever grace a football pitch. In total, he made 778 appearances, scoring a stunning 672 goals. 

Messi’s time at Barcelona came to an emotional end in 2021 when he made a sensational move to Paris Saint Germain.

Alamy

However, with his contract due to expire next summer, speculations have already begun gathering pace regarding a potential return to the Camp Nou. 

This season, Messi has been in fine form as he has managed to record eight goals and eight assists in 13 appearances across all competitions. 

The 35-year-old will be hoping his fine form can continue into the World Cup as he leads an Argentina side gunning for glory at football’s biggest tournament. 

Can Messi win the World Cup? Only time will tell.