Lionel Messi could be hit with a 12-match ban following his red card for violent conduct during Barcelona 2-3 Athletic Bilbao.
The six-time Ballon d’Or winner received the first sending off of his club career after striking Asier Villalibre on the back of his head on Sunday evening.
Barcelona lost the Spanish Super Cup final, but things could get a lot worse
Messi faces a ban of up to 12 games if the Spanish FA deem it a suitable punishment.
If the 33-year-old’s actions are thought to have been ‘aggressive’, then he’ll be banned for between four and 12 matches.
