Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team will no longer visit Kerala for a friendly match this year, leaving millions of fans in India disappointed.

 

Kerala’s Sports Minister, V. Abdurahiman, confirmed the news on Monday, stating: "Messi and the Argentina team’s visit, scheduled for this year, has been cancelled. The foreign team has informed us that they won’t be able to come to India in October."

 

Earlier announcements had created a wave of excitement among fans, as Messi was expected to lead his team in a highly anticipated match in Kerala. The tour had been confirmed and sponsors had already paid the match fees.

 

"The sponsors made it clear that their interest was only in the October visit. With that, the matter is now closed," Abdurahiman added.

 

Previously, the minister had stated that Argentina’s team would be treated as state guests, with the government handling their security, accommodation, and other arrangements.

 

For now, Indian fans’ dream of watching Messi play live in their country has been postponed.