Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:55am on 22 Sep 2025,Monday Sports
Lionel Messi is officially returning to India for the first time since 2011. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the Argentine World Cup champion will visit Mumbai on December 14, 2025, as part of the GOAT Tour. The 38-year-old eight-time Ballon d'Or winner sent Fadnavis a personally signed ball ahead of the visit. Young under-14 footballers from across Maharashtra will be selected to train directly with Messi, creating a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for aspiring players. Additionally, Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman confirmed Argentina's national team, including Messi, will play a friendly match in Kerala during the November 2025 FIFA International Window, expanding his India tour.