Atletico Madrid fullback Filipe Luis has lashed out at the special treatment of Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Luis caused outrage this season when he was sent off for a challenge on the Argentine.

Speaking with TV Esporte Interativo, the former Chelsea defender insists he had nothing to be ashamed of.

"I admit it was a red, the referee was not wrong, I sought the ball but very aggressively and Leo was there. It was just red, I left the field, I played a game and that's it," he began.

"It's a play that happens in every game, but it was Messi. He is protected by the press, by the Liga. I think they do not want one of their best players of all time injured and not being able to see him play. I slept calmly because I did not want to hurt him at any time.

"I tackle with the same intensity I try not to be so aggressive in a play. So many players enter the field to change shirts, I don't ..."