VIDEO. Lionel Messi issues apology on camera to infuriated Chinese fans

Forward for Inter Miami, Lionel Messi, issued an apology to Chinese fans for missing a friendly match against Hong Kong during the team's preseason tour. The Argentine star published his message to Chinese football enthusiasts on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.

Local fans were upset with Messi after he was unable to play against Hong Kong but then appeared in a match against Vissel Kobe in Japan just a few days later. The Hong Kong government even demanded answers from Inter Miami, as many fans were eager to see the 2022 World Cup winner in action.

"I always want to play and be involved in every game. I've heard some people say I didn't want to play for political reasons and many other reasons that are totally untrue. If that were the case, I would never have travelled to Japan or visited China as many times as I have. I have always had a very close relationship with China. I have done so many things together with China - interviews, friendly matches, different events with Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

Messi also explained that he had a groin inflammation which prevented him from participating in the match. He attempted to play against Al-Nasr, but his condition only worsened.

"On the day before the Hong Kong game, I tried to train and made an effort for all those who'd come to watch the training. I did all I could," he added.

Earlier reports indicated that Messi has fully recovered from his injury and is ready for the first match of the MLS season, scheduled for the night of February 22nd.