“We understand the fans’ disappointment because of the absence of Leo Messi and Luis Suarez (in today’s match – PV),” Inter Miami coach Martino said in a press conference after the victory over Hong Kong with a score of 4-1 pm 4/2. “We understand the fans’ feelings and hope for forgiveness.”

The Argentine strategist continued: “We wish we could put Messi and Suarez on the field for a few minutes but the risk is too great.”

Lionel Messi did not play a single minute in the friendly match between Inter Miami and Hong Kong.

Messi, who is 36 years old, only played the last 6 minutes in the friendly match between Inter Miami and Al Nassr on February 1. Currently, the 2022 World Cup champion must race against time to recover in time for the new MLS season, which will kick off on February 21. After the match against Hong Kong, Inter Miami will fly to Japan, preparing for the next friendly match against Vissel Kobe on February 7.

As for Messi, he had a hamstring problem, making him a substitute for Inter Miami’s victory over Hong Kong. Luis Suarez, Leo’s teammate, also did not play.

This makes fans feel angry. Many fans agreed to spend up to 125 USD to get a ticket to the stadium in the hope of seeing the former Barca star play with their own eyes.

After the break between the two halves, the crowd present at Hong Kong Stadium could not keep their patience. Chants of “We want Messi”, “Return the ticket money” rang out. The booing became louder in the last 10 minutes of the match, when it became clear that the owner of the 8 Golden Balls would not appear, even for just a few minutes.

The mockery of the match organizers reached its peak after the referee blew the whistle to end the match. Former footballer David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, was repeatedly booed while trying to thank the crowd of fans “for their incredible support”.