Argentine star Lionel Messi will remotely inaugurate a 21-meter-high statue this Saturday (13) in Calcutta, India, kicking off a three-day tour that has generated great anticipation in the South Asian country.
The iron sculpture depicts Messi lifting the World Cup trophy. However, for security reasons, Inter Miami’s Argentine star will inaugurate it remotely rather than in person.
The 38-year-old striker is embarking on a tour called GOAT (an acronym for “greatest of all time”), which will take in four Indian cities and include a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In Calcutta, in eastern India, an area for fans was installed with a life-size replica of Messi sitting on a throne. The venue also recreates the star’s home in Miami, with mannequins of his family members.
Being able to see your idol will be “a dream come true”, said fan Samir Nandy, 64 years old. “Legends are not forged by success alone. It is his resilience that made me believe in him,” he added.
The statue’s main sculptor, Monti Paul, said he completed his work in 40 days. “It’s a source of pride to build Messi’s sculpture. It’s the tallest statue I’ve ever made,” he said.
Messi, who will meet Bollywood and cricket superstars in Kolkata, said it was an honor to visit the country.
“India is a very special country and I have fond memories of my time there 14 years ago: the fans were fantastic,” the former Barcelona player said in a statement.
“India is a football-loving nation and I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful sport,” he added.
After Calcutta, where he will play a brief friendly match, the captain of the Albiceleste team will travel to Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.
Press reports point to a meeting with Modi during his stay in the Indian capital.
Messi won his second consecutive MLS (Major League Soccer) MVP (Most Valuable Player) award this week, after leading Inter Miami to the local league title and being the competition’s top scorer.
The former Barcelona and PSG (Paris Saint-Germain) striker will lead the Argentine team in defending the World Cup title next year, in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
