Lionel Messi to visit India? Argentina match back on track, says Kerala sports minister

NEW DELHI: Kerala's sports minister V Abdurahiman confirmed on Saturday that the Argentina national football team, with star player Lionel Messi, would visit the state as previously announced, with the sponsor having already paid the match fee.The foreign team is expected to arrive during October-November this year. They will receive state guest status, with the government managing their security, accommodation and other necessary arrangements.The minister's statement revived football enthusiasts' expectations, following earlier media reports suggesting Argentina's cancellation of their Kerala visit due to alleged contract breaches by sponsors.Previously, both Abdurahiman and Reporter Broadcasting Company had dismissed these reports, maintaining that the world champions would indeed play a friendly match in the southern state.The minister recently posted on FB stating "Messi will come", bringing renewed attention to the matter.Speaking to media on Saturday, Abdurahiman explained that initial delays in the sponsor's match fee payment have been resolved.

"The sponsor has completed the payment. No other hindrances exist. FIFA's window for world teams to participate in such events falls in October-November. We expect to be allocated the same timeframe," he stated.According to the agreement between the sponsor and Argentina Football Association (AFA), the team's management will arrive after receiving the match fee, with date and details to be announced through a joint statement.Responding to queries, Abdurahiman noted that the sponsor informed the government about the fee payment, though they await confirmation from Argentina's team management."The sponsors have confirmed settling the pre-match contract amount. The government isn't involved in any financial transactions. The contract exists between the sponsor and team management," he clarified.The friendly match is likely to take place at the greenfield stadium, which meets international standards.The government's primary aim is to inspire the state's sports sector by hosting the world champions.