In an interview with South China Morning Post, President Kay said they did not want to give priority to Messi and the Argentine superstar’s team due to the incident that happened earlier this year. He said: “Personally, I think it is inappropriate to mention Messi at this time. He and his team will no longer be given priority to come to Hong Kong.”
Hong Kong plans to invite Ronaldo, ignoring Messi
Eight-time Golden Ball winning star Messi missed a match due to injury and this angered Hong Kong fans. Messi was on the reserve list, but did not play in the US Major League Soccer (MLS) team’s 4-1 victory over Hong Kong XI.
Now, Kay just wants to bring Ronaldo and Al Nassr to Hong Kong without paying attention to Messi, and at the same time come up with a solution to share costs. He declared that the Portuguese star is one of the best players in the world and has many fans: “If Al Nassr plays friendly matches in some cities, the expensive costs can be shared I don’t know if Al Nassr will return to China or not, but bringing Ronaldo to Hong Kong is a good idea.
Ronaldo is one of the most popular players. The Hong Kong Football Federation will coordinate with the parties to share the cost of inviting the Portuguese star to play football. Currently, we are in the stage of reviewing and discussing everything for Ronaldo to visit Hong Kong.”
Meanwhile, Al Nassr have not scheduled any pre-season matches and are focusing on their play in the Saudi Pro League, where they are second on the standings. But with a lucrative offer, Ronaldo and teammate Al Nassr will not miss the opportunity to promote the club’s image and gain huge revenue.
Messi apologized but was not forgiven
Lionel Messi fans were furious with the Argentine superstar for sitting on the bench during Inter Miami’s pre-season friendly match against Hong Kong XI earlier this year. A series of spectators shouted for “refunds” at the stadium. Club co-owner Beckham apologized on behalf of Messi at that time but was not accepted.
The former Barcelona star then took to Weibo to apologize to fans and said: “Hello to all fans and friends in mainland China and Hong Kong. I’m sorry that I couldn’t participate in the match. in Hong Kong due to a groin injury. I hope one day we will have the opportunity to return and also look forward to returning to the mainland as soon as possible.” Hong Kong fans accepted, as the world champion then took to the field in Japan a few days later.
Hu Xijin, a famous Chinese commentator, wrote on Twitter: “Why doesn’t Messi play in Hong Kong or have a handshake with the Hong Kong chief executive? And why is Lionel Messi laughing and running? comfortable and looking healthy in Japan? Many Chinese fans bought high-priced tickets and especially the audience in Hong Kong just to see Messi. They do not deserve such a superficial explanation and apology.
Inter Miami has played well this season and is leading the Eastern game in MLS. Lionel Messi is an important player for the club and has scored five goals in league matches this season.