Lionel Messi has hit out at reports that he made a gesture after being substituted in Barcelona’s 4-1 triumph over Real Sociedad at the Camp Nou.
Messi, who was substituted by coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino in the final ten minute of the match, grabbed his seventh league goal of the season in the victory.
A Madrid-based tabloid AS ran a report that the Argentine superstar was unhapy with being taken off the pitch by his countryman coach.
“I didn’t mean to make any gesture when I came off. I will not accept that certain media tell lies,” Messi wrote on his Facebook page.
Neymar opened his league account for Barcelona in the Tuesday tie when he netted the opener before he turned provider for Messi’s goal.
Sergio Busquet increased the tally for the Baulgranas from 20 yards after Messi saw his effort hit the cross bar.
The visitors pulled one back through an Alberto De La bella tap in but the 26-year-old Argentine provided Barca’s fourth of the night when he dribbled three men to lay a pass for Marc Batra before he was substituted.
“Nobody likes to be replaced, but we must accept it because it is the best for our team,” he added.
“What I will not accept is that certain media tell lies about any situation that happens around me.”
Barcelona lead the La Liga log on goal difference, having won all six games of the ongoing campaign.
Atletico Madrid, who kept their 100% winning start intact by defeating Osasuna 2-1, trail the leaders.
Real Madrid face Elche on Wednesday.
