Lionel Messi is all set to play an international game in India for the first time since 2011. Kerala sports minister Abdurahiman announced on Wednesday that the legend will be visiting India in 2025 to play an international match in the state. Messi last visited India in 2011 when Argentina took on Venezuela.
Lionel Messi to play in India in 2025
The Kerala sports minister announced that the contest between Lionel Messi‘s Argentina and their opponents will be held under the complete supervision of the state government. Messi enjoys a huge fan craze in the southern state of India, and it was quite evident during the FIFA World Cup last year. Across towns in Kerala, one could see huge cut-outs of Messi being installed. Not to forget, Argentina’s win in the FIFA World Cup in 2022 saw the fans in Kerala go berserk in their celebrations.
“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,” Kerala’s sports minister said.
Latest news
The last time Messi played in India, the tie between Argentina and Venezuela ended in a goalless draw.
Messi yet to retire from international football
In case you are wondering whether if Lionel Messi is going to retire from football anytime soon, he’s not. The 2022 FIFA World Cup champion had earlier expressed that he hasn’t set a timeline for his international career, as he continues to enjoy his time with the national squad.
“I haven’t set any date or deadline regarding my future; I just want to enjoy all of this. It moves me more than ever to be here and feel the love of the people because I know these could be my last matches,” Messi had said.