Lionel Messi, made a return to the pitch on Wednesday with his Inter Miami squad in Japan. This came after his absence from a highly anticipated Sunday match in Hong Kong, a decision that left local fans fuming with anger.
During the friendly encounter against Vissel Kobe, Messi finally made an appearance in the second half. He was substituted in for David Ruiz, hoping to make a significant impact on the game. However, despite his presence and undeniable skills, the match ended in a goalless draw at full-time, with Vissel Kobe ultimately securing victory through a penalty shootout.
The Sunday showdown against a squad from the Special Administrative Region (SAR) witnessed an unexpected turn of events, as Messi remained benched for the entire duration of the game. The tens of thousands of passionate fans at Hong Kong Stadium were quick to voice their displeasure, showering him with boos.
In an attempt to address the disappointment expressed by fans, Messi took to Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform, prior to the Japan match. He expressed regret over his inability to play in Hong Kong, citing swelling and pain as the reasons behind his absence. Messi’s statement emphasized his commitment to giving his best in every game, highlighting his desire to return to Hong Kong someday and deliver a stellar performance for the loyal supporters and friends he has there.
As a parting message, Messi concluded his Weibo post with a heartfelt Year of the Dragon greeting, leaving fans hopeful for a future opportunity to witness his exceptional talent on their home turf.
