Manchester City defender Martin Demichelis is being blamed for a foot injury Lionel Messi is carrying.

The Barcelona star missed games against El Salvador and Ecuador with Argentina this past week due to the complaint.

ESPN Deportes reports the injury came via a clash between Messi and Argentina teammate Demichelis during last month's Champions League tie.

Making matter worse, fellow Argie, Sergio Aguero, also clattered into Messi's foot during the same game!

Aguero spoke of Messi's absence yesterday: "Leo knows there are times when you cannot take a risk. He's annoyed, but he knows..."