Indian football fans have every reason to celebrate — Lionel Messi is officially coming to India this December. Fourteen years after his first appearance in the country, the Argentine superstar has confirmed his participation in the GOAT Tour of India 2025, a multi-city event that will blend sport, culture, music, and fan engagement.
This marks a historic return for the football legend, whose previous visit in 2011 remains one of the most cherished moments in India’s sporting memory.
Four Cities, One Iconic Tour
Messi’s Heartfelt Words for India
As per the official schedule, Messi will kick off the tour in Kolkata on December 13, followed by visits to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The grand tour will conclude on December 15, when Messi is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the capital.
“It is such an honour for me to make this trip. India is a very special country, and I have good memories from my time there 14 years ago — the fans were fantastic,” Messi said in an official statement.
He continued, “India is a passionate football nation, and I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game.”
Messi’s message has already set social media buzzing, as fans prepare to give him a hero’s welcome across all four cities.
Argentina’s Upcoming Match in Kerala
Messi’s India visit will closely follow the Argentine Football Association (AFA) announcement about their international friendlies later this year. The AFA confirmed that Argentina will play a FIFA friendly in Kerala between November 10 and 18, 2025 — a rare and exciting opportunity for Indian fans to see the world champions in action.
In its statement, the AFA noted:
“The Argentine national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will play two FIFA friendlies later this year — the first in the United States (October 6–14) and the second in Luanda, Angola, and Kerala, India (November 10–18).”
If finalized, this would mark the first time India hosts Argentina for an official FIFA-sanctioned match.
A Personal Connection with India
Adding to the warmth between the two nations, Messi had earlier sent Prime Minister Narendra Modi a signed Argentina jersey from the 2022 World Cup-winning campaign to mark the PM’s 75th birthday in September. The gesture symbolized mutual respect and has built anticipation for their upcoming meeting during the tour.
December 2025: A Month to Remember
For millions of Indian football enthusiasts, December 2025 will be a once-in-a-generation experience. Beyond the matches and events, Messi’s return represents the unifying power of football — a sport that transcends borders and inspires millions.
From the streets of Kolkata to the stadiums of Mumbai, fans are ready to welcome the greatest of all time with open arms and roaring chants of “Messi! Messi!”
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