Kerala happy to arrange friendly between India and Messi’s Argentina, asserts Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman

The Albiceleste are currently the top-ranked national team in the world.

On Friday, the 23rd of June, Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman took to social media, to express the state’s readiness to make arrangements to host World Champions Argentina, and his discontent with the All India Football Federation’s decision to turn down Argentina’s offer for a friendly game.

Earlier this week, the news broke out that the AIFF had been approached by Argentina’s football association, for the arrangement of a friendly fixture in the nation, but the offer was turned down due to the budget constraints that would’ve arisen for hosting the world champions. 

V Abdurahiman's statement

In his facebook post, Abdurahiman highlighted the possible outcomes for Indian football if the country had hosted the match. “The friendly match was a gift from Messi and his team in return for the overwhelming support they received. The level of stimulation it gave to Indian football could not even be measured.” he said.

He noted that those taking decisions about Indian football should think proactively, "or else India will remain at its 101st position in FIFA ranking.” 

The minister also elaborated on Kerala's love for the beautiful game, and how crazy the state is for Messi and Argentina. He also listed the various ways by which the state government tried to build rapport with Argentina.

“We have seen the sight of turning the whole of Kerala into a sea of blue during the World Cup. The huge cutout of Messi raised by the river even became news in the international media. Many people flew to Qatar to watch the game in person. The number of Malayalees who witnessed the World Cup matches surprised the participants,” he said.

“Honorable Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited Argentina Ambassador in Delhi. Expressed interest in collaborating with Argentina for Kerala's football development. As the Minister of Sports, he sent a letter of appreciation to the Argentina football team and their football association. Messi and his team were also invited to Kerala. The invitation was prompted by the encouragement and inspiration that the world champions would give to our football growth if they were willing to come," the Sports Minister revealed.

“Kerala will always welcome Argentina by heart. We will also make arrangements to organise the match. That will be the best prize that can be given to football,” he added.