Argentine forward Lionel Messi, currently with Inter Miami, disclosed that he is dealing with physical discomfort and remains unsure if he will be able to take part in the upcoming friendly against Vissel Kobe of Japan. His comments offer guidance on the team’s condition and preparation as the schedule tightens and expectations rise.
Messi explained that missing the Hong Kong match was a hard blow, and since then he has felt some strain that complicates his position on the field. He underscored the reality of football: injuries can strike any time in any game. The desire to play remains strong, especially when travel is lengthy and fans are eager to watch the team in person. This mix of aspiration and caution is familiar to players who balance competitiveness with the need for rest and recovery.
The Hong Kong fixture had a strong turnout, highlighting the global interest in the club. Inter Miami faced a 4-1 victory for the visiting side, with Messi watching from the bench as the crowd voiced their wishes and, at times, requested ticket refunds. The atmosphere was electric, and the scene near the stands reflected the passionate engagement of supporters long before the final whistle.
Midway through the second half, the chants of fans grew louder, with many calling for Messi to enter the game. After the match, club owner David Beckham publicly thanked the supporters, though a portion of the audience directed boos toward the man who has become one of the team’s most recognizable faces. The match drew nearly 38,000 attendees, illustrating the powerful draw Messi and the club have in the region.
Messi’s transfer to Inter Miami came in the summer of 2023 after a two-year stint with Paris Saint-Germain. Since arriving in the United States, he has already secured silverware, including the League Cup on August 20, marking a significant early triumph for the club in American soccer. This period has been characterized by intense fan enthusiasm and heightened media attention as the club pursues further success in a growing domestic landscape.
Media coverage in the past also touched on broader tensions arising around football in the region, with some outlets reporting on political or governmental reactions as part of the larger narrative surrounding the sport and its global reach. The focus for fans remains on the on-field storytelling: Messi’s form, the team’s tactics, and the path to continued competitiveness in MLS and international exhibitions. Source: Reuters