06 Feb 2024 at 09:02
Lionel Messi understands the dissatisfaction in Hong Kong about his absence from the practice match between Inter Miami and a local selection. The star player emphasizes that he was unable to play due to an injury.
“It was pure bad luck, but unfortunately this can happen in football,” Messi told various media on Tuesday.
The 36-year-old attacker withdrew from the match in Hong Kong with a leg injury. 38,000 people had bought an expensive ticket to see him in action. The world champion remained on the bench for the entire match on Sunday, much to the dismay of the spectators.
“I felt discomfort and had an MRI scan,” Messi said. “It showed swelling. I understand very well that people were looking forward to it. I hope I get another chance to play in Hong Kong.”
Messi also cannot guarantee that he will play in the exhibition match against Vissel Kobe in the Japanese capital Tokyo on Wednesday. “I feel a lot better and really want to play, but I don’t know if I can participate. I will know more on Tuesday after training. I have a good feeling about it.”
Fans in Tokyo are also eagerly awaiting an appearance by Messi. The tickets for the match vary in price from 65 to 1,200 euros.
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Disappointed fans whistle at bencher Messi in Hong Kong
Organization regrets dissatisfaction among fans
The organizer of the exhibition match in Hong Kong is disappointed with the dissatisfaction that has arisen among the visitors. “Tatler Asia regrets the disappointing end to what was a top event,” said CEO Michel Lamunière, who also said that the application for almost 2 million euros in government subsidy has now been withdrawn.
Hong Kong Minister for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung said the government had been assured Messi would play. Yeung only heard ten minutes before the end that the attacker would not even attack anymore.
“We immediately proposed alternatives, for example that Messi would appear on the field, greet the crowd and receive a cup,” the minister told a news conference.
2024-02-06 08:02:00
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