'It was not political' - Messi explains Hong Kong absence - video Dailymotion

Fans in Hong Kong were left furious when Lionel Messi sat on the sidelines during a friendly two weeks ago

Transcript

00:00 Well, I've read and listened to many things that were said after what happened in the Hong Kong game.

00:08 That's why I've preferred to make this video and give the real explanation, and not have to read fake things.

00:29 Everyone knows that I always want to play and be in every game.

00:34 I've heard that I didn't want to play because of political reasons and many other things that have nothing to do with it.

00:41 If it had been like that, I wouldn't have gone to Japan or been to China so many times.

00:50 I tried to train and make an effort with the people who were there in the training the day before.

01:08 In fact, I did what I could and I was in the gym with all the guys there.

01:16 I couldn't play because I felt annoyed and I was afraid of going worse.

01:24 As always, I want to send a big hug to all the people in China who have always had and still have it.

01:41 I hope to see you again soon. A big hug and all the best. Bye!