Football: Confirmed! Lionel Messi “looking forward” to December visit to India for GOAT Tour 2025
Messi to visit four cities in India in December
We have known that Lionel Messi is scheduled to visit India for a few months now, but given the current issues that Indian football and specifically the Indian Super League is facing at present, there were still lingering doubts that his trip may be cancelled.
However, the Argentine superstar has now put those concerns to bed by confirming his arrival in December for the GOAT Tour 2025, while also revealing that he is looking forward to spending time in India. In a social media post on Thursday, Messi wrote:
“India is a very special country, and I have good memories from my time there 14 years ago. The fans were fantastic. 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.”
As it stands, Messi’s schedule for the GOAT Tour starts in Kolkata on December 13, when he will arrive at the Salt Lake Stadium, and he is expected to feature in an exhibition match alongside the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Leander Paes and former India skipper Bhaichung Bhutia.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will then move on to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and conclude his tour in New Delhi on December 15. Notably, in Mumbai, he will participate in the Padel GOAT Cup with Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni.
GOAT Tour to be Messi’s second visit to India this year?
Indeed, while there is almost certainty - barring any unforeseen issues - that Messi will arrive in India in December, there is also a chance that the GOAT Tour could be his second visit to the country in the space of a month.
This is because the Argentine national team has provisionally included India as a possible destination for their November international friendlies. Reports suggest that La Albiceleste could face the Blue Tigers in Kerala sometime between November 10 and 18.
Until then, though, Messi’s focus will be on helping Inter Miami win the MLS Cup. The Herons have two games left to play in the regular season, but sit seven points off Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia Union.
However, while Inter Miami will not be able to finish top of the Eastern Conference, Messi could claim another individual award this season, as he is currently the top goal scorer in Major League Soccer with 24 goals, one ahead of Denis Bouanga and Sam Surridge.
