Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami appeared to be a marketing dream for all concerned, that was before their pre-season tour of Asia.
After playing just seven minutes in Saudi Arabia and missing a ‘last dance’ with Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi failed to feature in Hong Kong with the fallout still rumbling on.
So why has Messi’s no-show caused geo-political tensions to rise and is the GOAT in danger of becoming a show pony in the final stages of his illustrious career?
Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Paul Tenorio to analyse the episode as well as dissect the wider impact on the growth of MLS.
Produced by Guy Clarke
Additional Production by Mike Stavrou
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
Further reading:
‘A thuggish flamingo’: Why China turned on Lionel Messi - The Athletic
Hong Kong uproar, Messi injured and just one win: Inside Inter Miami’s Asian tour - The Athletic
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why Chelsea & Lukaku still need each other
Have Arsenal lost 'control' of title race?
Weekend Preview: Man City hitting their groove, are Aston Villa heading for Europe & Roy's revival at Palace continues
Is Vincent Kompany the next elite manager?
How can Barcelona re-sign Lionel Messi?
Guardiola v Tuchel: Don't overthink it
Arsenal succumb to ‘Anfield effect’
Weekend Preview: Arsenal face Anfield obstacle, Lampard returns & Newcastle full of firepower in top four hunt
Lampard’s Chelsea return - does it actually make sense?
Is Jurgen Klopp untouchable?
Inside Potter's 'Surreal' Chelsea Reign
Potter’s Chelsea departure explained
Weekend Preview: Liverpool look to scupper City's Treble chances, Newcastle look to settle a score & Tottenham's turmoil deepens
Klopp or Guardiola? How do you assess a manager?
Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United: the tightest title race in WSL history?
Why Harry Kane & Manchester United both have a 'Big Decision' to make this summer
Conte gone - Nagelsmann next for Spurs?
How important is the manager to a club's success?
Weekend Preview: Harry Kane makes England history, Zlatan set for Sweden return & Premier League state of play
Could Barcelona lose their best player for free this summer?
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Transfer Talk
The Totally Football Show with James Richardson
Football Weekly
Back Pages
On The Continent - A European Football Podcast