Lionel Messi was dry heaving during Barcelona’s match against Levante

Barcelona couldn't have gotten off to a much better start to the season, beating Levante 7-0 with six of those goals coming in the first half. Lionel Messi scored two of those first-half goals, including one from the penalty spot, but in an unusual twist, he was slowed down by the bodily functions of a mere mortal before the end of the match.

When the two sides emerged from the dressing rooms for the second half, a nauseous Leo Messi doubled over, spitting and dry heaving on the pitch. He did try to power through and keep playing, but he was eventually subbed off for Andres Iniesta in the 71st minute. A rare occurrence for the four-time Ballon d'Or winner.

After the match, new Barcelona manager Tata Martino explained the decision to give Messi a rest (via Reuters):

And make sure he doesn't vomit on himself on the first day of the season.