Lionel Messi expresses gratitude to Indian fans after GOAT India Tour's conclusion

Lionel Messi (Pic: File Pic)

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has expressed his gratitude for the hospitality he received from the fans during the "GOAT India Tour".

The tour saw the footballer make his appearance in four different cities. He also extended his stay by a day and paid a visit to Anant Ambani's Vantara wildlife rescue in Jamnagar. Messi then departed for his base in Miami.

The Rosario-born footballer shared a video on his official social media handle. "What incredible visits to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Thanks for the warm welcome, great hospitality and all the expressions of love throughout my tour. I hope football has a bright future in India!#GOATTourIndia #GOATconcert #MessiinIndia A Satadru Dutta Initiative," his post read.

His wishes come at a time when Indian football is struggling for its survival. The Indian Super League (ISL) has been brought to a halt as the league's board is trying to find a commercial partner. On the other hand, the national team is also struggling from poor results.

The Argentine superstar did not play any competitive football during the overall trip. Throughout the "GOAT India Tour", Messi was accompanied by Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul.

Messi's overall visits to Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Delhi went smoothly, as fans enjoyed the experience of witnessing the star footballer in person.

However, his visit to Kolkata turned ugly after politicians and officials surrounded him, denying fans, who had paid thousands for a seat to get a clear view of the icon.

Following the incident, the gathered spectators indulged in vandalism at the Salt Lake Stadium, prompting Messi to be whisked away sooner than the originally planned time.

In Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, the star player charmed fans by posing for pictures and showcasing some of his warm-up routines besides playing briefly with young players.

"...we carry all this love with us, and we will definitely return, hopefully one day to play a match or on another occasion, but we will definitely return to visit India," he said after the final leg of the tour in Delhi.

(With PTI Inputs)