Amidst the buzz surrounding El Salvador, as the national team gears up for the battle against Inter Miami, a whisper of regret hangs in the air. For Jairo Henriquez, the Salvadorian international and Colorado Springs midfielder, this pre-season clash holds a bittersweet promise – the unfulfilled dream of playing against the legendary Lionel Messi. It’s quite unfortunate as his reason to make it to the game is not even soccer-related!

As the Salvadorian star is barred from playing against star-studded Inter Miami, Henriquez claims the situation is a ‘thorn’ in his path. Let’s delve deeper and uncover the honest, heartfelt confession the 30-year-old has to deliver.

El Salvador star’s bittersweet dreams of facing Lionel Messi

As Inter Miami is set to start its pre-season tour, the first stop for the Herons will be Cuscatlan Stadium in San Salvador on January 19, Friday, where they’ll face the NT. El Salvador’s Jairo Henriquez, expressed his yearning to face off against Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami. Henrique, grappling with mixed emotions, revealed, “Personally, I have been left with that little thorn of not being able to play this Friday against Messi”, as per El Grafico. Immigration hurdles stand as an immovable barrier between Henriquez and his chance to lock horns with his idol.

The sting of the absence is felt in his words, as he added, “The quality of the four stars of that club is something that any footballer wants to face on the field. It hurts me not to have the privilege of playing it, because of my immigration status I cannot do it. I hope to be able to play against Messi in a friendly match.”

Henriquez exuded confidence in the Salvadorian team to bring out a good result. The attacking midfielder claimed that the younger generation will play with their hearts, despite being a friendly clash. Although he categorized Lionel Messi on an entirely different level, he emphasized his belief in the youngsters to take advantage of this game. It’ll be interesting to see the outcome of Inter Miami’s first game of the year.

Salvadorians are all set to host Messi & Co.!

As the clash nears, El Salvador finds itself on the cusp of a historic matchup. The prospect of witnessing Lionel Messi, alongside Suarez, Alba, and Busquets, has ignited unparalleled excitement among local soccer enthusiasts. The stadium is already declared ‘sold out’ ahead of the match, with no tickets available at the Cuscatlan stadium.

READ MORE: “Leo’s Arrival Was Going to Change Many Things” – Jordi Alba Hails Lionel Messi’s Impact on Inter Miami & MLS

The Salvadorian authorities have also renovated the stadium before the match. The upgrades include enhanced pedestrian access, state-of-the-art security cameras, improved dressing rooms, and advancements in lighting on the field. As El Salvador braces for an unforgettable experience, Jairo Henriquez’s heartfelt confession surely breaks hearts.

Will Inter Miami start its year with a win against El Salvador? Let us know your predictions in the comments!

WATCH THIS STORY: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Makes a Huge Assist for Esports Space