A Hong Kong official has made an interesting Cristiano Ronaldo claim after Inter Miami and Lionel Messi almost caused a diplomatic issue in the region.
The Herons traveled to Asia as part of their worldwide pre-season tour that took Inter Miami to El Salvador, Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong, with Japan as the final destination as the Florida franchise looked to use their newfound popularity with Messi and company.
However, there was drama in Hong Kong as Messi was ruled out injured for the game despite fans being advertised that the Argentine would play, leading to widespread criticism and anger amongst supporters towards Inter Miami and the friendly organizers.
Despite the drama all-but ending, a new twist in the tale has now emerged.
Ronaldo could now play in Hong Kong after Messi and Inter Miami drama
Speaking to the South China Morning Post, the Hong Kong FA president Pui Kwan-kay admitted that an idea is already in the works to invite Ronaldo and Al-Nassr for a friendly at some point.
With Hong Kong fans missing out on the chance to see Messi, switching tact to Ronaldo is perhaps no real surprise given how big a rival the Portuguese superstar is to the Inter Miami and Argentina captain.
Indeed, with Ronaldo also getting into hot water over missing a friendly earlier this year, the Al-Nassr striker turning up at Hong Kong would be quite the turnaround, especially with Messi failing to play in the fixture.
Pui said about Ronaldo coming to Hong Kong: “I don’t know if Al Nassr are returning to China, but [bringing Ronaldo to Hong Kong] is a good idea because he’s one of the most popular players.”
Hong Kong have gone full petty mode after GOAT no-show
Considering how built up Messi’s arrival in Hong Kong was earlier this year, it’s perhaps no real surprise why soccer officials are now leaning towards being petty in trying to get Ronaldo to come.
As we know, the 38-year-old is often labeled as Messi’s greatest rival in the sport, and Ronaldo playing in Hong Kong whilst the-then injured Argentine failed to turn up would be viewed by some individuals as a win or some sort.
Whether or not this fixture actually takes place is one thing, yet following the developments and the potential narrative will be interesting for Inter Miami and Messi fans.