The controversy over the absence of the Argentine star Lionel Messi in the friendly Inter Miami in Hong Kong continues, so the Government of that country asked for explanations from the group of USA and to the organizing company, given that one of the main conditions of the agreement was that the player from Rosario will play at least 45 minutes.
He Inter Miamii won 4 to 1 against Hong Kong XI but the main news was the absence of Messiwho was on the bench but did not add minutes, while the coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino He explained the reasons and asked for forgiveness.
“Leo has an inflammation in the adductor. We have had images that we have taken of him in Arabia. We take him day by day but we always have the expectation that he can evolve in the appropriate way”expressed Martino at a press conference.
And he added: “When we sat down with the medical staff they stated that it was very risky for the footballer to be able to play today. I apologize to the fans for his absence and I understand their disappointment.”
Messi came from playing a handful of minutes against Al Nassrin the overwhelming 6-0 win by the Arab team, but this Sunday they were left out of the match and the fans present in the stadium closed the friendly with a shower of whistles in a clear display of anger.
“One of the main conditions of our financing agreement with Tatler Asia was that Messi participate in the match for at least 45 minutes, except for reasons related to his physical condition and safety”he stated Kevin YeungSecretary of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Hong Kong.
Furthermore, the Government It showed itself “very disappointed” and threatened to withdraw the 1.9 million euros of public financing to the organizer of the event because the company had assured the presence of Messi in the second half until minutes before the start of the game, according to what he stated Yeung.
“The Government, as well as all football fans, are very disappointed by the disposition of the organizers. The organizer owes an explanation to all football fans”the official closed.
Source: Ambito
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