Lionel Messi 'involved in altercation with Manchester City player in tunnel' after Barcelona defeated

Messi allegedly got into it with a Man City player Photo:Rex

Lionel Messi was allegedly involved in an altercation in the tunnel following Barcelona's defeat to Manchester City last night, according to unconfirmed reports in Spain.

The Argentine striker is believed to have clashed with a Manchester City star after the unnamed player allegedly said something to him as they left the pitch.

Messi is thought to have responded by calling him 'stupid', reports in Spanish newspapers Marca and Mundo Deportivo suggested.

The 29-year-old allegedly even headed to the City dressing room to look for the unnamed player but was calmed down by international team-mate Sergio Aguero, Mundo reported.

Messi's sublime goal had gifted Luis Enrique's side the lead and the hosts barely clung on as the La Liga champions spurned several glorious chances.

Following the win, Pep Guardiola insisted City were forced to survive against the 'best team in the world' before bouncing back to defeat Barca 3-1.

A gift in the form of a Sergi Roberto stray pass led to Ilkay Gundogan's first goal - followed by Kevin De Bruyne's free-kick and the German's second - but Guardiola insists beforehand the Etihad witnessed the very best in football.