According to New Indian Express (via Firstpost), Lionel Messi's highly anticipated trip to India this year (Kerala) to play a friendly has been canceled as the organizers were not able to raise 100 crores. The Argentinian superstar was set to arrive in India with his national team in October as they were supposed to play an exhibition match.
Lionel Messi's trip to India in jeopardy
The Sports Minister of Kerala V Abdurahiman announced last year that Argentina would play two exhibition matches in the state in 2025. One of those matches were supposed to be held in Kochi.
The sponsorship for the event was initially handed over to the All Kerala Gold and Silver Merchants Association (AKGSMA). The organizers had planned to raise a whopping amount of 100 crores via sales on their app called Oloppo. However, they failed to raise the amount within the deadline given to them as the deal is nearly canceled.
Out of 100 crores, 70% is the appearance fee for the Argentina team as they have started looking for other options. Speaking to the New Indian Express, the Kerala Sports Minister refused to comment on the matter and said,
The sponsors will respond to the queries.
As of now, Lionel Messi will not be coming to India this year. Even the Argentine journalist, Gaston Edul had reported that Argentina will play two games in China and one each in Qatar and Angola this year.
There has been no official confirmation as of now but it seems that Argentina has already planned their schedule for the international break in October and November. The last time Messi visited India was back in 2011 when Argentina played a friendly match against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata.
The report even added that the State Government has now handed the sponsorship of the event to Reporter Broadcasting Company Pvt Ltd. Notably, HSBC India had confirmed Argentina's arrival in March via a statement after they had a partnership with the national team. But, they are also keeping quiet on the matter.
How many goals has Lionel Messi scored for Argentina?
The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner, Lionel Messi has scored 112 goals for the national team. In 191 appearances, he has 58 assists to his name. Only his arch rival, Cristiano Ronaldo has scored more goals than him (136).
The eight time Ballon d'Or winner has won the FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles, one Finalissima, one Olympic gold medal and even the Under-20 World Cup. He is now eyeing to lead Argentina at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup as it might be the last time we see him in national colours.