Lionel Messi responds to criticism after missing Inter Miami's Hong Kong Friendly, says ‘still don't know if I will be able to or not’

Lionel Messi has finally disclosed the reason for his absence from Inter Miami's friendly match in Hong Kong on February 4 and provided an update on his expected return date.

Both Messi and Inter Miami have faced heavy criticism after the World Cup-winning Argentine missed his team's match against a Hong Kong XI. This led to loud booing directed at the eight-time Ballon D'Or winner by the crowd at Hong Kong Stadium. Furthermore, some of the protests were directed at the club's co-owner, David Beckham, who was present in the stands.

Also Read: David Beckham receives boos from fans and refund requests arise due to Lionel Messi's absence in Hong Kong match

Since the announcement of the fixture, advertisements, marketing campaigns, and ticket sales have skyrocketed to unprecedented levels in the country. Fans were excited to witness the Argentine in action, while businesses aimed to capitalise on his presence. However, the majority of them were left disappointed when Messi remained on the Miami bench for the entire match.

The 36-year-old has now revealed the reason for his absence on February 4, citing a persistent injury concern.

I WANT TO BE THERE: MESSI

Messi gave reporters an explanation about an injury that had prevented him from playing in Sunday's game and also poses a threat to his participation 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 at the Inter Miami press conference.

He remains in Asia with his teammates, getting ready for their upcoming friendly against Japanese club Vissel Kobe on February 7. However, the former Barcelona star is uncertain about his prospects of playing in that match, despite his eagerness 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.

The 36-year-old expressed his frustration with the injury and its severity, as he desires to assist his team during these friendly matches.

"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 concluded.

(Powered by AI, Inputs by India Today)

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