Athletes are human too and get sick just like the rest of us. We’ve all seen what soccer superstar Lionel Messi can do on the field and wondered in awe if he could really be human. Well, Yahoo Sports is reporting an incident that puts to rest whether or not Messi is just like us.
In a match against Levante, Messi came out in the first half and scored 2 goals. However, the second half dispelled Messi’s immortality status when he was seen vomiting on the field. He did try to play through it but was eventually replaced by Andres Iniesta in the 71st minute.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SSQ8YBHu2k?feature=player_embedded]
Barcelona manager Tata Martino explained the decision after the match:
“I had already spoken to Messi about it. The season is very long with many games and he is intelligent and understands it is necessary. In an evenly-balanced match no one would take him off…but it is important to look after him and safeguard his fitness.”
Let’s be real. Barcelona won the match 7-0. Messi had already scored 2 goals. There was no need for him to be on the field. It was the right decision. I’m pretty sure Messi isn’t crying about missing any playing time.
