In an exciting development for Indian football fans, Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi has added Hyderabad to his much-anticipated India tour, prompting Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to begin intensive football training for their upcoming friendly match.
Messi's Expanded India Itinerary
The football legend recently made the announcement through social media, expressing his enthusiasm for visiting multiple Indian cities. Messi will play in Hyderabad on December 13 as part of his GOAT (Greatest of All Time) tour, which also includes stops in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi.
Currently serving as captain for both the Argentina national team and US club Inter Miami, Messi brings an impressive career pedigree to Indian shores. His professional journey includes a notable period with Paris Saint-Germain in France and an iconic, long-standing career with Spain's legendary FC Barcelona.
Chief Minister's Football Preparations
Telangana's Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, a known football enthusiast, has taken the upcoming match with serious dedication. According to sources close to the CM, Reddy has been training late at night after completing his daily administrative duties, typically beginning around 11:30 PM.
"While it is a great honour to even stand on the same ground as Messi, the CM does not want to put up a poor show. So, he is training," revealed a source familiar with the Chief Minister's preparations.
Reddy responded to Messi's tour announcement with official enthusiasm, stating: "I look forward to welcoming and hosting G.O.A.T Lionel Messi in Hyderabad on December 13. It is an exciting moment for our city and for every football fan who has dreamt of seeing a legend like you on our soil."
Match Details and Special Jerseys
The friendly match promises several distinctive elements that will delight football aficionados. Messi will appear in his iconic Number 10 jersey, which will feature three golden stars representing Argentina's three FIFA World Cup victories.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Reddy will sport a personalized "RR9" jersey and is expected to play in the center forward position. Sources indicate he will captain the team facing Messi's squad, adding political star power to the sporting event.
Organizing committee representatives have promised a spectacular welcome for the football icon, with one source emphasizing that Hyderabad will give Messi a "royal welcome" befitting his global stature. The city preparations are underway to create a memorable experience for both the player and thousands of expected spectators.
This December encounter marks a significant moment for Indian football, bringing one of the sport's living legends to Telangana and creating an unprecedented opportunity for local fans to witness greatness on their home turf.
