Lionel Messi has finally revealed the reason behind his absence in Inter Miami’s Hong Kong friendly on Sunday, February 4, and provided an update on his tentative return date.
Both Messi and Inter Miami have come under intense criticism following the World Cup-winning Argentinian’s absence from his side’s match against a Hong Kong XI. This incident sparked loud booing directed at the eight-time Ballon D’Or winner from the crowd at the Hong Kong Stadium. Additionally, some of the protests were aimed at the club’s co-owner, David Beckham, who was present in the stands.
Ever since the fixture was announced, advertisements, marketing campaigns, and ticket sales soared to a miraculous level in the country. Fans were eager to catch a glimpse of the Argentinian in action, while businesses sought to capitalise on his arrival. However, the majority of them were left disappointed after seeing Messi spend the entire match on the Miami bench.
For the first time since the friendly, Messi shared the reason behind his absence on Sunday, citing a persisting injury concern.
I WANT TO BE THERE: MESSI
Messi provided reporters with insight into an injury that had prevented him from participating in Sunday’s game and also poses a risk to his chances of taking part in Inter Miami’s upcoming friendlies.
“The truth is that it was bad luck that I couldn’t (play) on the day of the Hong Kong match. Unfortunately, in football, things can happen in any game, and we may have an injury. It’s a shame because I always want to participate, I want to be there, and even more so when it comes to these games when we travel so far and people are so excited to see our matches,” Messi told reporters about his injury.
Messi is still in Asia with his teammates, preparing for their next friendly against Japanese club Vissel Kobe on Wednesday, February 7. However, the former Barcelona star is unsure about his chances of featuring in that game, irrespective of his desire to be on the field.
“The truth is that I feel very good compared to a few days ago. And depending on how that (training) goes. And if I’m honest, I still don’t know if I will be able to or not. But I feel much better and I really want to be able to do it,” Messi added.
According to the 36-year-old, he has been gutted by injury and its nature as he wants to help his side during these friendlies.
“I hope we can return and we can play another game and I can be present. As I do whenever I can. But the truth is that it is a shame that I was not able to participate,” Messi added.
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