Revealed: Lionel Messi struck mid-game referee deal to avoid major final ban – with Argentina superstar’s shirt worth more to match official than following the rules

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Chris Burton

L. MessiArgentinaInter Miami CFCopa America

It has been revealed that Lionel Messi once struck a mid-game shirt deal with a Copa America referee that allowed him to avoid a ban for the final.

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  • Chasing continental glory back in 2007
  • Handball threatened to earn costly caution
  • Spared suspension but missed out on title
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