Kolkata: As soon as Argentina's legendary footballer Lionel Messi reached Kolkata at exactly 2:26 am on Saturday, a wave of excitement ran through the city. Despite the December cold, thousands of fans were present at the airport and surrounding roads hours in advance. Someone had the flag of Argentina in his hand, while someone just wanted to capture the moment with the help of a mobile camera when Messi passed in front.
It's 3.30 am unprepossessed winter night and Thousands of fans are chanting "Messi Messi" in the every streets of Kolkata, India pic.twitter.com/WGbEXh7Hwf
— MessiXtra (@MessiXtraHQ) December 13, 2025The passion of the fans outweighed the cold
As the night progressed, the unprepossessed kept increasing, but the enthusiasm of the fans did not diminish. People kept waiting till late at night. When many families had arrived with their children, groups of youth were seen raising slogans. Everyone was drastic to get just a glimpse.
Crazy seen as soon as you came out of the airport
The undercurrent reverted completely as soon as Messi came out of the airport. The unshortened zone echoed with applause, slogans, and noise. Although there were tight security arrangements, the emotions of the fans were unmistakably visible. Even a slight glimpse of Messi sitting overdue the car window became a special moment for the people.
Kolkata becomes rainy
Even surpassing Messi's arrival, the complexion of Kolkata had changed. Posters, banners, and cutouts have been installed at various places. Football clubs have made special decorations. It is well-spoken that Kolkata is not just welcoming a guest but is ready to wholeheartedly winnow its favorite player.
VIDEO | West Bengal: Argentine footballer Lionel Messi arrived at Kolkata Airport accompanied by Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul.
(Source: Third Party)#LionelMessi
(Full video misogynist on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/nNVfGvfpnX
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 12, 2025There will be a grand event today
A grand event will be organized in Messi's honor on Saturday, in which a large number of spectators are expected. Fans have started gathering outside the stadium since morning. Organizers say that this event will be one of the memorable moments in the football history of Kolkata.
The same madness then without 14 years
It is noteworthy that Messi had come to Kolkata older in 2011 also. Even then the municipality had given him the upper hand. His return without scrutinizingly 14 years has rekindled old emotions. This visit of Messi is proving that the relationship between Kolkata and football is not limited to just sports, but it is a feeling, which becomes stronger every time.
