Messi will come, reiterates Kerala Sports Minister; Argentina football team’s visit likely during FIFA break

Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman on Saturday reaffirmed that football icon Lionel Messi will visit Kerala, taking to his official Facebook page to counter recent rumours suggesting the visit may not happen. However, the minister refrained from offering any clarity on when exactly the trip would take place.

The Facebook post has reignited excitement among fans across the state, even as the lack of specific details leaves much to be anticipated.

According to reports, an agreement has been advanced with the Argentine Football Association to facilitate Messi’s arrival. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that discussions are progressing smoothly and without hindrance.

However, the visit is contingent upon fulfilling conditions set by the Argentine side. Once these are met, a formal intimation is expected to be sent, following which a date for the visit will be confirmed.

FIFA has allocated two international break windows in October—from the 6th to the 14th and from the 10th to the 18th. The proposed visit is likely to take place during one of these time frames, depending on the outcome of ongoing coordination efforts.

Government approvals and formalities nearly completed

Approvals from the state and central governments—including the Reserve Bank of India, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Ministry of Finance—have reportedly been secured.

Final payment timelines will be set once the current procedural formalities are completed. Organisers are understood to be awaiting official confirmation before progressing to the next phase of planning.