Messi Aims to Redeem Himself in Tokyo After Hong Kong Debacle

Tokyo, February 6: Lionel Messi, Argentina’s World Cup-winning captain, is aiming to bounce back from a public relations nightmare in Hong Kong by playing in Wednesday’s friendly match against Vissel Kobe in Tokyo. His absence in the Hong Kong match, where he sat on the bench for the entire duration, angered fans and sparked controversy.

Hong Kong Fiasco:

On Sunday, during a friendly match against Hong Kong All-Stars, Messi and teammate Luis Suarez stayed on the bench throughout the game, causing immense disappointment among thousands of fans who had paid premium prices to see them play. The decision sparked outrage, with fans demanding refunds and accusing organizers of misleading advertising.

Messi Breaks Silence:

Facing pressure from sponsors and eager to appease fans, Messi addressed the media for the first time since joining Inter Miami in July. He acknowledged the disappointment in Hong Kong, stating, “The truth is that it was bad luck that I couldn’t (play) on the day of the Hong Kong match.”

Cautious Optimism for Tokyo:

Messi expressed optimism about playing in Tokyo, mentioning, “I feel much better compared to a few days ago.” He clarified his participation depends on his upcoming training session but emphasized his desire to play: “I really want to be able to do it.”

Future Visit to Hong Kong?:

Leaving the door open for a future visit to Hong Kong, Messi said, “I hope we can return and we can play another game and I can be present.” He acknowledged the disappointment he caused and expressed his wish to make amends.

Fan Reactions:

While some fans remain skeptical, others are hopeful for a better experience in Tokyo. Many are eager to see Messi play, acknowledging that unforeseen circumstances might have prevented him from participating in Hong Kong.

Focus on the Game:

The focus now shifts to Wednesday’s match, where Messi’s participation would undoubtedly attract a large crowd and generate significant excitement. Whether he plays or not, the incident in Hong Kong serves as a reminder of the immense expectations placed on global superstars and the importance of clear communication with fans.