Lionel Messi and David Beckham recently faced the wrath of fans at a pre-season friendly match in Hong Kong. The anger and disappointment of the fans were palpable as Messi, the Argentine superstar, sat out the match, prompting loud boos and demands for refunds. The frustration escalated during the last 10 minutes of the game when it became evident that Messi would not make an appearance, leading to a crescendo of jeers at the final whistle. Even David Beckham, the co-owner of Inter-Miami, was not spared as he was drowned out by the booing when attempting to express gratitude for the crowd’s support. Fans expressed their disappointment, feeling cheated after paying a significant amount for tickets in anticipation of watching Messi in action. The frustration was evident as one fan remarked, “Without him it’s just like another regular Hong Kong Premier League match, where a ticket only costs HK$80. This time we paid HK$5,000.”
Miami coach Gerardo Martino explained that the club’s medical team had made the decision to sideline Messi after assessing him on Sunday morning. Despite understanding the fans’ disappointment, Martino emphasized the club’s concern for Messi’s well-being, stating, “We wish we could have sent Leo on for at least a while but the risk was too big.” Messi, aged 36, had only played six minutes in Miami’s previous match in Saudi Arabia and is now facing a race against time to regain full fitness for the upcoming MLS season, commencing on February 21.
The incident in Hong Kong has highlighted the immense anticipation and expectations surrounding Messi’s appearances, and the disappointment that ensues when he is unable to take the field. As one of the most recognizable and revered figures in the world of football, Messi’s presence draws large crowds and generates significant buzz, and his absence undoubtedly left fans feeling let down. It remains to be seen how Messi’s fitness will progress in the lead-up to the new season and whether he will be able to appease the disappointed fans with his on-field prowess in the near future.
