Lionel Messi Finally Lands In Kolkata: Fans In India Explode After 14‐Year Wait (WATCH)

Lionel Messi has touched down in Kolkata, marking his first visit to India since 2011. The arrival of the World Cup winner has triggered massive excitement, especially in a city long regarded as the football capital of the country. For supporters, this moment closes a 14‐year gap and revives memories of his debut trip.

Messi's travel to India carries weight because of Kolkata's deep football culture. His 2011 appearance for an international friendly left a lasting impression, and his return now is seen as a full‐circle moment. The city's stadiums, streets, and fan groups have been preparing for weeks, treating the occasion like a festival.

In India, Messi's stardom is not limited to the pitch. He is idolized as a global figure whose career arc - from Rosario to lifting the World Cup - resonates with millions. His humility and consistency have made him a household name, cutting across regions and generations.

Kolkata's football scene has embraced Messi as one of its own. The anticipation around his landing shows how his legacy bridges continents. For the Indian fans, this is a cultural event. Messi's presence validates the passion of a city that has always seen football as more than a game.

Fan Reactions

Welcome to India, Leo twitter/5uLVKCeBZw

- We Are Messi (@WeAreMessi) December 13, 2025

Crazy scenes in India upon lionel Messi's arrival twitter/AyNvGENh0E

- MC (@CrewsMat10) December 12, 2025

Lionel Messi can't stop smiling upon his arrival in India twitter/oHOy1SWDly

- MC (@CrewsMat10) December 12, 2025

A nation of a billion, yet rather than investing in football development, they choose to idolise a player who doesn't even know India exists lmfaoooo W (@_common_W_) December 12, 2025

CRAZE FOR MESSI IN twitter/fD8eTPCFuo

- Barça Worldwide (@BarcaWorldwide) December 12, 2025

Lionel Messi arrived in India like a king! twitter/lRTScsfo5y

- TheScreenshotLad (@thescreenlad) December 12, 2025

70 feet tall!! This is massive twitter/yCvLvcWeii

- We Are Messi (@WeAreMessi) December 12, 2025

He hasn't stopped smiling since he arrived Messi is really feeling the love in India twitter/ZQoukP7E6I

- J. (@Messilizer0) December 13, 2025

Fans chanting Messi Messi in the streets of India  Insane influence twitter/OwmzVdSmi0

- MC (@CrewsMat10) December 12, 2025

Sorry batman Not interested Remind me onRonaldo arrival

- unplugged memer (@unpluggedmemer) December 12, 2025

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