LIONEL MESSI is in the midst of a spectacular “CHEAT” storm.

The 36-year-old football great has enjoyed an electrifying start to life in America, scoring seven goals in four games.

Lionel Messi has been embroiled in a ‘cheat’ storm following his free-kick vs FC DallasCredit: Reuters

Fans spotted Messi moving the ball slightly before taking his free-kickCredit: TikTok @comtrax_chicafitbolivia

Messi moved the ball while the ref had his back turnedCredit: TikTok @comtrax_chicafitbolivia

And some fans remarkably labelled him a ‘cheat’Credit: TikTok @comtrax_chicafitbolivia

His accomplishments included a remarkable 85th-minute free kick against FC Dallas that sent Inter Miami into extra time in the League Cup, which his team won 5-3 on penalties.

However, the Argentine World Cup champion is now being accused of “cheating” by certain fans.

Messi can be seen lingering over the ball before his free shot in game footage.

In the video, the ex-Barcelona player can be seen advancing the ball while the ref attends to the defensive wall.

Messi nestled the set-piece into the top corner as a result of the little tweaks.

However, the act divided fans online.

Taking to Twitter, one fan wrote: “This video of Lionel Messi slowly and sneakily moving the ball a few feet to the left so he has a better angle on his free kick is a good reminder that even the world’s best athletes are constantly looking for an edge.”

A second argued: “‘Looking for an edge’ is the new way to refer to cheating, lol. And yes, i know that many others do the same…. and yes, i think they all cheat (because it’s against the rules).”

“Considering where the ball ended up going in, these slight movements made all the difference in actually scoring. That’s artistic genius by Messi,” remarked a third.

A fourth hit back: “Cheating. You mean cheating.”

Meanwhile, a fifth replied: “First time watching a football match? Every match this happens 100 times.”

Another claimed: “What a cheater 😂.”

Messi’s entire Major League Soccer debut has been postponed due to Inter’s League Cup success.

He was supposed to make his MLS debut against Charlotte FC on August 20.

However, with the Herons having advanced to the quarter-finals, the game has now been rescheduled for Friday at the PNK DRV Stadium.

Furthermore, with the semi-finals due to begin on August 19, one club will be unable to fulfill the initial match time.

Incredibly, Messi is already joint-fourth on Inter’s all-time goalscorer list just one month after making his debut.

And at this rate, he’ll have no trouble catching compatriot Gonzalo Higuain, who leads the league with 29 goals.