Lionel Messi set to play in India again after 14 years: Report

Messi’s Argentina will play a game in Kerala.

On Wednesday, Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman declared that the renowned Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team would come to the state for an international game the next year (2025). The Kerala minister told reporters at a press conference that the state government would oversee the entire match.

The minister expressed confidence in Kerala’s ability to organize the historic event and stated, “The state’s merchants will provide all the financial assistance for organizing this high-profile football event.”

The last time Messi played in India was in 2011, during an international friendly match between Argentina and Venezuela. That match had finished in a goalless draw. As a worldwide football star, Messi has a sizable fan base in India, even in a nation where cricket has historically held a dominant position.

The chief minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan later tweeted and stated,

“Kerala is set to make history as FIFA World Cup Champions Argentina are expected to visit next year! This dream is becoming a reality thanks to the State Government’s efforts and the support of @AFASeleccionEN. Let’s gear up to welcome the champions and celebrate our love for football!”

Kerala, where football has long been a popular sport, is notable among his Indian fans as a hub for Messi’s mania. Messi’s popularity in North America recently increased in 2023 summer when he joined Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami following his well-publicized time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

His MLS performances have enthralled Indian supporters, many of whom stay up late or wake up very early to watch his games, even though they live thousands of miles away.

With fan clubs and events devoted to commemorating his accomplishments, Messi’s extraordinary career has cemented his place as a popular figure in the area. Messi has become a part of Kerala’s ingrained football culture.

Lionel Messi in India

It will be a massive occasion for Indian football fans to see one of the greatest football players make his return to the football pitch in India. Kerala is one of the biggest football states in the country that have die-hard fans of football.

During ISL one can see how their home stadium is always full during the matches. This will be another big chance for the fans to witness the eight-time Ballon d’Or player. Expect many fans from other states to travel to Kerala to witness him in action on Indian soil.

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