Lionel Messi Returns To India After 14 Years, Kerala Sports Minister Announces Argentina’s Football Match In 2025 News24 –

The Argentina national football team, along with their star player and captain Lionel Messi, will travel to Kerala in 2025 for an international football friendly, as confirmed by Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Wednesday. This will mark Messi’s return to India after a 14-year hiatus since his last appearance in 2011 when Argentina faced Venezuela in Kolkata in a goalless draw.

Minister’s Visit To Spain And Negotiations

Minister Abdurahiman shared details of the negotiations, revealing that he visited Spain last week to discuss the opportunity with the Argentina national team representatives. The discussions were successful, and the team has agreed to play the friendly match in India, which will take place in Kerala. “We invited the Argentina national football team to Kerala, and they have agreed to play a friendly match in India in 2025,” said Abdulrahman.

Promoting Football In Kerala

The Kerala government has been working to foster a stronger sports culture in the state, particularly in football. As part of their efforts to enhance the sports economy, the government has launched several initiatives, including large-scale campaigns and the first-ever sports conclave in Kerala, which attracted private investments worth over Rs 5,000 crores. Minister Abdurahiman emphasized that these projects are already underway and that hosting the Argentina team will further promote the sport in the region.

Match To Be Held Under Government Supervision

Abdulrahman clarified that the friendly match will be conducted under the full supervision of the government, with financial backing from Kerala’s trade community. The match will be organized inclusively, reflecting the state’s commitment to supporting international football events. The official announcement regarding the visit will be made by Argentina, with a joint declaration expected to follow within the next month or so.

Messi’s Recent Achievements

Lionel Messi continues to achieve great milestones in his career. Recently, he equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the most hat-tricks in international football during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia.

Additionally, Messi was awarded the prestigious Ballon d’Or for the eighth time in 2023, a testament to his exceptional skills and accomplishments. Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, became the first MLS player to win the Ballon d’Or.

Messi’s Legacy And Career Highlights

Messi’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. After making his debut in 2004, Messi went on to win numerous accolades, including seven previous Ballon d’Or awards. Despite the heartbreak of missing the 2014 World Cup, Messi redeemed himself by leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, securing the nation’s third title and his place in football history alongside legends like Diego Maradona.