KOLKATA, Dec 12, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Lionel Messi will unveil a 21-metre (70-
foot) statue of himself in India on Saturday as he embarks on a three-day 
tour of the country that has sparked a fan frenzy.

The iron sculpture in Kolkata, which shows Messi holding aloft the World Cup, 
is part of a so-called GOAT Tour that will take in four Indian cities and a 
possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The 38-year-old Argentina and Inter Miami superstar will unveil the monument 
virtually rather than in person for security reasons.

A "Hola Messi" fan zone has also been set up in Kolkata where on display is a 
life-sized replica of Messi sat on a throne.

The hall also recreates his Miami home, complete with mannequins of his 
family members.

Football fan Samir Nandy said it would be "a dream come true" to catch a 
glimpse of his idol.

"Legends are not made by success alone. It is his resilience that made me 
believe in him," Nandy, 64, said in Kolkata.

"The statue is a fitting tribute to him."

Monty Paul, the statue's main sculptor, told AFP the structure was built 
inside 40 days.

"It's a matter of pride to build the sculpture of Messi. It's the tallest 
statue I have made," he said.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will also meet Bollywood superstar Shah 
Rukh Khan and former India cricket captain Saurav Ganguly during his 
whirlwind trip to Kolkata.

Ahead of his arrival, Messi said it was an honour to visit India and interact 
with the fans.

"India is a very special country and I have good memories from my time there 
14 years ago -- the fans were fantastic," Messi said in an official 
statement.

"India is a passionate football nation and I look forward to meeting a new 
generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game."

After Kolkata, where Messi will play a short friendly match, he will head to 
Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.

In Hyderabad he will attend a concert in his honour and play another 
friendly.

He is reportedly scheduled to meet Modi in the capital.

Messi won his second consecutive Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player 
award this week after propelling Inter Miami to the MLS title and leading the 
league in goals.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker will spearhead 
Argentina's defence of the World Cup in June-July in North America.