When Lionel Messi Chose Not To Come To Indonesia, PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir Admits Sad

PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir is sad that Lionel Messi did not come to Indonesia. (Photo via Antara)

JAKARTA - Pupus has hoped football lovers in the country to be able to witness Lionel Messi's action. The new Inter Miami player did not join the Argentine national team on their visit to Indonesia for the FIFA Matchday event.

Messi chose to enjoy the holidays. A decision that disappointed many people, including the General Chair of the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Erick Thohir.

He expressed his sadness after the Argentine national team superstar did not come to face the Indonesian national team at the Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, on June 19.

"When Messi chose not to come to Indonesia, of course I was sad. Moreover, I am also a supporter of Messi, but if we are not appreciated (arrival) then that's okay," said Erick Thohir, as quoted from Antara, Saturday, June 17.

Apart from Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi also certainly did not come to Indonesia. This is the decision of Albicaleste coach Lionel Scaloni who wants to rest the three players by providing a holiday quota.

"As I said when the Argentine national team came there were many other extraordinary stars, for example Julian Alvarez who played at Manchester City and other players. I think this is a positive thing for the Indonesian national team," said Erick.

As for the match, Erick said it would be carried out according to FIFA regulations.

"Of course we have to obey FIFA rules regarding organizing the match. But we are looking at (possibly) whether when the audience enters the field, one or two hours can be entertainment. I want a new breakthrough. Maybe there will be a little singing but don't not follow FIFA rules because this is not a concert, this is a football match," said the former Inter Milan President.

The Argentine national team, which is already in Jakarta, is scheduled to undergo closed training at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Indonesian national team will also undergo closed training on the night.