Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were booed by fans in Hong Kong when the Argentina international sat out a pre-season game with an injury.
Messi was present but sat on the bench for the full 90 minutes as his side beat the Hong Kong All-Stars at the Hong Kong Stadium. This came just one day after he practiced in front of a sold-out crowd.
Inter coach Tata Martino commented on the issue at the post-match press conference: “We understand that many fans are very disappointed and we ask for their forgiveness.”
The Argentinian international then played just 30 minutes against Vissel Kobe in Japan.
Lionel Messi injury update
Messi suffered a hip adductor injury against Al Hilal during the first of two matches in Saudi Arabia.
Despite an MRI scan revealing no significant injury, Messi said problems persisted. He described the injury as an unfortunate occurrence and shared optimism about the possibility of returning to play in Hong Kong if given the chance.
Despite being declared fit enough to play against Vissel Kobe, he only managed 30 minutes in Japan. Fans back home in Miami will be hoping he plays his first full 90 against Newell’s Old Boys on Thursday night.
Will Messi play against Newell’s Old Boys?
Messi will line up for Inter Miami against his former club on Thursday, according to his manager Martin.
“It’s important for us that he gets as many minutes as possible before the start of the league.”
So I can confirm he will start because that’s what we’re trying to do to get him as fit as possible before the 21st.
Martino also addressed Messi’s injury and shared an update on his progress. “He played a bit more in Japan and he will probably get more minutes tomorrow and if things continue in the same way he will be in good shape for the start of the season.”
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