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Lionel Messi is set to return to India after 14 years, as Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman announced that the Argentina football team will visit the state in 2025 for an international match.
Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Wednesday said that the Argentina football team, including legendary player Lionel Messi, will visit the state next year for an international match.
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Speaking at a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, the minister confirmed that the event will be organized under the full supervision of the state government, ensuring a grand spectacle for football fans.
"All the financial assistance for organising this high-profile football event will be provided by the merchants of the state," the minister said, expressing confidence in Kerala's ability to host the historic occasion.
Messi last visited India in 2011 when Argentina played an international friendly match against Venezuela. The match had ended in a goalless draw.
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Lionel Messi, a global football icon, commands an immense fan base in India, a country where cricket has traditionally been the dominant sport. Among his many admirers, Kerala stands out as a state where football enjoys unparalleled popularity, and Messi is celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm.
Messi’s switch to Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in 2023, following his stint at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), broadened his global appeal, reaching even more fans across North America. Despite the geographical distance, Indian fans, particularly in Kerala, have been captivated by his performances in the MLS, with many staying up late to watch his matches live.
The Argentine legend’s achievements have further solidified his place in the hearts of Kerala’s football-loving community. With its rich football heritage and deep-rooted passion for the sport, the state has embraced Messi as one of their own, with fan clubs and gatherings often held to honor his incredible journey.
