WATCH: Lionel Messi addresses MISSED Inter Miami Hong Kong friendly, explains absence

Even without Lionel Messi, Inter Miami won 4-1 against Hong Kong XI.

WATCH: Lionel Messi addresses MISSED Inter Miami Hong Kong friendly, explains absence

Lionel Messi spoke about his absence from Inter Miami vs. Hong Kong match. (Image via beIN Sports and Financial Times)

Argentine star Lionel Messi addressed the media and fans following Inter Miami‘s match against Hong Kong XI, clarifying the reason for his absence from the match. Messi termed it as a ‘shame’ that could not participate in the match.

The match between the MLS side and the Hong Kong XI took place at the Hong Kong Stadium, where almost 40,000 fans were in attendance. The absence of the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner brought significant disappointment among the locals. Messi was left out on the bench for the entire match due to a minor hamstring injury situation. Furious fans demanded refunds from club owner David Beckham and vandalized posters and cutouts of Messi.

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Following the massive uproar regarding Messi’s absence which even invited government criticism, the ex-Barcelona forward decided to address the situation. In a press conference on Sky Sports, Messi cited injury as a reason he couldn’t play in the match in Hong Kong. He expressed regret for missing the opportunity to participate, given the excitement and support of the fans. He expressed hope for the chance to return to play another game.

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Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami side have moved on to Japan where they will play Vissel Kobe. It remains uncertain whether Messi will participate in the game, despite being seen training with the team.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami teammates reunite with former Barcelona star Andres Iniesta

Emotions ran high as Lionel Messi reunited with his former Barcelona teammate Andres Iniesta during Inter Miami’s pre-season trip to Japan. They were joined by other former Barca players, including Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets.

Messi with Iniesta, Alba, Suarez and Busquets
Lionel Messi and his Miami teammates Suarez, Busquets, and Alba, reunited with former teammate Andres Iniesta. (Image via Times Now)

All, including Barcelona manager Xavi, were part of the club’s golden generation in the 2010s. Under manager Pep Guardiola, Barcelona was Europe’s strongest team, winning major trophies. Messi, Suarez, Alba, and Busquets now play for the MLS team Inter Miami, owned by David Beckham. Iniesta, after five seasons in Japan with Kobe, currently plays for UAE’s Emirates FC.

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