League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Mark Clattenburg reflects on officiating Lionel Messi's matches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 11:30 AM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Mark Clattenburg reflects on officiating Lionel Messi's matches

Summary

Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg discussed his experiences having officiated Lionel Messi during three matches from April to December 2015. Clattenburg praised Messi's respectful demeanor and exceptional talent while underscoring how the Argentine's ability to maneuver swiftly created challenges for officials. He highlighted Messi's impact during the recent 2026 World Cup, where Messi excelled despite criticism over his running statistics. Clattenburg expressed gratitude for the opportunity to referee one of football's legends.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Mark Clattenburg refereed Messi in three matches between 2015 and 2016.
•He praised Messi's respectful attitude and skill on the field.
•Clattenburg noted Messi's performance at the 2026 World Cup.
•Messi is currently playing for Inter Miami in MLS.

Latest Updates

11:30 AMYahoo Sports — Former Premier League referee explains what he learned when officiating ‘great talent’ Lionel Messi

What they're saying

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Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has opened up on what officiating Lionel Messi was like. Messi is now starring at Inter Miami in the MLS but prior to moving to America, he had an illustrious career in Europe with FC Barcelona and then PSG.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Inter Miami Barcelona Bayern Munich Paris Saint-Germain EPL Soccer