Lionel Messi, one of football’s greatest icons, will return to India for the first time in 14 years. Scheduled for 2025, the Argentine superstar will participate in an international friendly match hosted in Kerala. This announcement has sent waves of excitement across football fans in the country, who cherish the rare opportunity to witness Messi’s brilliance live on Indian soil.
Kerala: The Ideal Host
Kerala, known for its passionate football culture, is preparing for a grand reception. From murals to street art, Messi’s fanbase in the state is unmatched. Local authorities, led by Kerala’s Sports Minister, have assured comprehensive preparations for the event. This includes collaborations with merchants to provide the financial and logistical support necessary to make the match a monumental success.
Reliving Messi’s Last Visit
Messi’s last visit to India was in 2011, during a friendly between Argentina and Venezuela in Kolkata. That event attracted over 70,000 fans to Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium. Though Nicolas Otamendi scored the sole goal in that game, Messi stole the show with his unmatched skills, leaving the crowd in awe.
Current Form and Legacy
Despite turning 37 in 2024, Messi remains a force in football. Currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), he continues to inspire fans with his extraordinary performances. Fresh off leading Argentina to their FIFA World Cup victory in Qatar, Messi’s influence and legacy only grow stronger.
What to Expect
The upcoming match is expected to bring unparalleled energy to Kerala. Fans are gearing up with chants, banners, and endless enthusiasm to ensure Messi feels the love and admiration he deserves. While the finalization of the event depends on Messi’s position in Argentina’s national team at the time, the buzz surrounding the announcement is already palpable.
Messi’s return is not just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of football and its unifying power. As Kerala prepares to host this historic match, fans across India and the world are counting down to the unforgettable moment when Messi graces Indian soil once again.
