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

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The Athletic FC Podcast

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Why China and Hong Kong turned on Messi