The Argentina national football team, led by their star captain Lionel Messi, is expected to visit Kerala next year for an international football match.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan shared the exciting news on Facebook, announcing that the reigning world champions will play in Kerala, and the legendary Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is likely to be part of the squad.
Messi’s Last Match in India
Messi’s last appearance in India was in 2011 during a friendly match between Argentina and Venezuela at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. The game ended in a goalless draw but remains a cherished memory for Indian football fans.
Kerala’s Passion for Football Recognized
“Kerala is a land where football is celebrated with unparalleled love and passion, crossing the boundaries of nations and cultures. The visit of the Argentina national team is a reflection of our dedication to this beautiful game. Having Lionel Messi, one of the greatest players in history, join the team will be an unforgettable experience,” said Chief Minister Vijayan.
He praised Kerala’s commitment to football and credited the state government’s persistent efforts for making this dream visit a reality. He also highlighted how this moment would place Kerala prominently on the global sports map.
According to Vijayan, the financial requirements for the event will be supported by Kerala’s business community, which has shown remarkable enthusiasm. The Argentinian Football Association is expected to confirm the visit officially in the coming months.
Sports Minister Confirms Discussions
Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman also revealed that talks were held with the Argentina team representatives during his visit to Spain. He confirmed that the team has agreed to play a friendly match in India in 2025, with an official announcement from Argentina expected soon.
