Mumbai (Maharashtra): Argentina football icon Lionel Messi has arrived in Mumbai for the third venue of the ‘GOAT India Tour 2025’. The World Cup winner reached the city on Sunday and checked into the Taj Mahal Hotel. His arrival has once again created huge excitement among football fans.
Messi’s India visit has seen mixed moments so far. His first stop in Kolkata ended on a disappointing note. Chaos broke out at Salt Lake Stadium after fans expressed anger over VIPs and politicians allegedly taking up most of Messi’s time. This left many supporters unhappy.
Massive fan excitement as Argentina legend continues memorable India visit
However, the second stop in Hyderabad turned things around. It was a memorable night for fans at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. Thousands gathered to watch Lionel Messi in action. The 38-year-old took part in a 7-on-7 exhibition football match. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also joined the game.
Messi received a warm and loud welcome from the crowd. He also met the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. During the meeting, Messi presented Rahul Gandhi with his iconic number 10 Argentina jersey. The Congress leader posed for pictures with Messi and his Inter Miami teammates, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul. The football legend was also felicitated by the Telangana Chief Minister with a momento.
Messi, who is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, shared a special moment with children at the venue. He kicked the ball around with them for a short while. It became a lifetime memory for the young fans.
During his stay in Mumbai, under-14 football players from across Maharashtra will be selected by the state sports department. These young players will get a rare chance to practise with Messi on Sunday.
Delhi will be Messi’s final pit stop for the ‘GOAT India Tour 2025’ on Monday.
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