Fans in China are expressing deep disappointment after Lionel Messi failed to grace the pitch during Inter Miami’s preseason friendly against a Hong Kong XI, leading to a sense of being ‘scammed.’
Despite Inter Miami securing a 4-1 victory, the absence of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner left fans discontented. Tatler XFEST, the match organizer, released a statement expressing their extreme disappointment over Messi’s no-show.
Fans, who had traveled from various parts of China and neighboring countries, voiced their frustration, with one supporter, Ada Kam, claiming they felt scammed and displaying a placard that read “refund scam” during an interview with CNN.
The situation escalated as even the local authorities in Hong Kong sought an explanation for Messi’s absence, adding a layer of scrutiny to the incident.
Fans anticipated witnessing Messi in action and were disappointed not only by his non-participation but also by the absence of customary interactions like jersey signings or greetings.
The palpable disappointment among fans raises questions about the club’s communication and the impact on its reputation.
As Inter Miami prepares for their next preseason match against K-League side Vissel Kobe, the fallout from Messi’s absence lingers, creating uncertainty about the club’s relationship with its global fanbase and potential repercussions for future events.
Fans in China are expressing deep disappointment after Lionel Messi failed to grace the pitch during Inter Miami’s preseason friendly against a Hong Kong XI, leading to a sense of being ‘scammed.’
Despite Inter Miami securing a 4-1 victory, the absence of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner left fans discontented. Tatler XFEST, the match organizer, released a statement expressing their extreme disappointment over Messi’s no-show.
Fans, who had traveled from various parts of China and neighboring countries, voiced their frustration, with one supporter, Ada Kam, claiming they felt scammed and displaying a placard that read “refund scam” during an interview with CNN.
The situation escalated as even the local authorities in Hong Kong sought an explanation for Messi’s absence, adding a layer of scrutiny to the incident.
Fans anticipated witnessing Messi in action and were disappointed not only by his non-participation but also the absence of customary interactions like jersey signings or greetings.
The palpable disappointment among fans raises questions about the club’s communication and the impact on its reputation.
As Inter Miami prepares for their next preseason match against K-League side Vissel Kobe, the fallout from Messi’s absence lingers, creating uncertainty about the club’s relationship with its global fanbase and potential repercussions for future events.