Inter Miami ‘sorry’ for Messi let-down as club responds to ‘consuming headlines and negativity’, eyes Hong Kong return
- Inter Miami issues statement in response to fierce criticism over Sunday’s doomed exhibition match in Hong Kong
- American club complete preseason tour with game against Vissel Kobe in Tokyo on Wednesday
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How Lionel Messi’s Hong Kong visit went from cheers to jeers and anger
Inter Miami have responded to the backlash over Lionel Messi’s no-show in Sunday’s exhibition match at Hong Kong Stadium, and said they “tried everything possible” for the Argentine to play.
Messi sat out the game against a Hong Kong XI, with an adductor injury blamed for his absence. Speaking on Tuesday, in Tokyo, where Inter Miami complete their global preseason tour against Vissel Kobe today, the 36-year-old said it was “a shame” he could not take part, and he hoped to return to Hong Kong to play.
In a 468-word statement issued to the Post on Wednesday, Inter Miami expressed similar sentiments.
The club said it felt “compelled to reiterate the reality of these types of sports injuries”, in light of the ongoing “headlines and negativity towards the different stakeholders”.
Inter Miami added they “would be eager to return to beautiful Hong Kong in the future, should the fans be open to receiving the Club again”. The club did not address the question of whether they would make a goodwill gesture, or reimburse fans.
Organisers Tatler Asia have come under fire from fans who paid up to HK$4,480 for tickets, in the expectation of watching one of the greats of the sport. Equally, the government have demanded Tatler explain the PR calamity.
Another marquee figure, striker Luis Suarez, missed the match, and Inter Miami and Messi were subject to the fury of a Hong Kong public that felt exploited and let down by the whole affair.
