Whispers of Lionel Messi gracing the Eden Gardens with his presence in December 2025 have ignited fervent excitement among football enthusiasts in Kolkata. However, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) appears to have been caught off guard by these swirling rumors, casting a shadow of doubt over the Argentine superstar's visit to the iconic cricket stadium.
According to reports, Messi's itinerary includes a stop at Eden Gardens for an event on December 13, 2025. This news has generated considerable buzz, with fans eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness the legendary footballer in action. The proposed event is the "GOAT Concert and GOAT Cup" from 12 noon to 1.30 pm, which would celebrate Messi's illustrious career. It is also expected he will be playing a seven-a-side soft-ball, soft-touch game with prominent Indian personalities such as Sourav Ganguly, Leander Paes, John Abraham, and Bhaichung Bhutia. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is also expected to be present to felicitate Messi during the program.
Despite the widespread anticipation, the CAB has stated that they are unaware of any official communication regarding Messi's visit to Eden Gardens. CAB President Snehasish Ganguly expressed surprise at the news, stating that the association had not received any official request from the organizers. Another CAB official emphasized the need to obtain permission from the Army and consult with their apex body before confirming any such event.
Adding to the confusion, reports suggest that Messi's visit to India is part of a larger tour spanning multiple cities, including Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The tour is said to include a variety of activities, such as unveiling a 70-foot statue of himself, conducting masterclasses with children, and meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Messi is scheduled to arrive in Kolkata on December 12, staying for two days and one night. His Kolkata itinerary allegedly includes a meet-and-greet event and the statue unveiling before the anticipated Eden Gardens appearance.
In Mumbai, it has been reported that Messi will visit Wankhede Stadium on December 14, with the Mumbai Cricket Association having granted permission for the event. There were even reports that Messi might participate in a seven-a-side cricket match with Indian cricketers, although sources have denied those claims. The final stop in Messi's India tour is expected to be New Delhi on December 15, where he is slated to meet Prime Minister Modi.
The lack of communication between the event organizers and the CAB has understandably raised concerns about the feasibility of Messi's visit to Eden Gardens. With the proposed date drawing closer, it remains uncertain whether the necessary arrangements can be made in time to accommodate the event. The situation highlights the importance of clear communication and coordination when organizing large-scale events involving high-profile personalities.
As fans eagerly await further updates, the possibility of witnessing Lionel Messi at Eden Gardens hangs in the balance. Whether the CAB's concerns can be addressed and the necessary permissions secured remains to be seen. For now, the "Kolkata trip" remains a tantalizing rumor, leaving football enthusiasts hoping for a positive resolution.
It is worth noting that Messi has visited Kolkata once before, in September 2011, for a friendly match against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium.
