Football fans in Kolkata are witnessing a once-in-a-generation moment as Lionel Messi begins his much-anticipated India visit, with the city serving as the first major stop of his whirlwind GOAT India Tour. The Argentine legend arrived in Kolkata at 2.26 am on Saturdaytriggering massive celebrations across the airport, surrounding roads and his hotel, Hyatt Regency.
For fans eagerly waiting to see Messi in person at the stadium, the key moment comes later in the morning. Lionel Messi is scheduled to arrive at Salt Lake Stadium at 10.50 am on Saturdaymarking the highlight of his Kolkata programme. The stadium visit is part of a packed agenda that blends football, celebration and fan engagement.
At the venue, Messi will interact with players from the Mohun Bagan ‘Messi’ All Stars and Diamond Harbour ‘Messi’ All Stars, who will contest a special exhibition match organised in his honour. The programme also includes the felicitation of Bengal’s Santosh Trophy-winning team, underlining the state’s football legacy. One of the most awaited segments is the “Master Class with Messi”, where young footballers from across West Bengal will get a rare opportunity to learn directly from the World Cup-winning captain.
Messi will not be alone during the celebrations. Long-time teammate Luis SuarezArgentina midfielder Rodrigo DePauland Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan are expected to be present. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjeealong with several senior dignitaries, will attend the event. Messi will also take a ceremonial lap of honour inside the Salt Lake Stadium and will virtually unveil a 70-foot statue of himself at Lake Towna first-of-its-kind tribute that has already become a major talking point in Kolkata.
After concluding his Kolkata engagements, Messi will depart the city at 2.05 pmheading to Hyderabad for the next leg of the tour. The Hyderabad programme at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium includes a short exhibition match, a football clinic for children and a felicitation ceremony, with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expected to make a brief appearance.
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