Lionel Messi: Argentina Cancels Kerala Visit: What Really Happened and What’s Next for the Football Legend!

The dream that millions of Indian football fans cherished has been put on hold — perhaps indefinitely. The long-awaited visit of Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team to Kerala has officially been called off. After weeks of excitement, promotional buzz, and logistical planning, the Argentina Football Association (AFA) confirmed that the World Cup-winning side will not play in India this November, choosing instead to travel to Angola for a friendly match.

The decision, confirmed by event sponsors and Kerala state officials, has left fans heartbroken but still hopeful that Messi might one day grace Indian soil in the blue-and-white stripes of Argentina. As this news reverberates across the football world, it has reignited discussions around Messi’s career, retirement plans, and his global appeal — not just as a player but as an icon.

Let’s dive into what this means for Messi, Argentina, and the millions who still chant his name from afar — while answering some of the most asked questions about the football legend.

Did Messi Retire?

This is perhaps the most common question fans ask whenever Lionel Messi’s name trends — has Messi retired?

The short answer: No, Lionel Messi has not retired from professional football. The 38-year-old continues to play for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS), a move he made in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. Messi’s presence in the United States has already revolutionized American football culture, bringing unprecedented global attention to MLS.

However, Messi has occasionally hinted at winding down his international career. Following Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar, there were widespread rumors that he might step away from the national team. But true to form, Messi confirmed that he would continue wearing the Albiceleste jersey — at least through the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

That said, Messi has adopted a more selective approach, skipping smaller friendlies or low-profile tournaments to manage his physical workload. The Kerala cancellation is likely a reflection of Argentina’s strategic focus on meaningful fixtures ahead of the 2026 World Cup rather than a sign of retirement.

For now, Messi remains active, fit, and as magical as ever — balancing club football in Miami with his enduring love for Argentina.

Which Club Offered Messi $1 Billion?

The world of football has seen jaw-dropping transfer offers in recent years, but few come close to the staggering $1 billion offer Lionel Messi reportedly received in 2023.

According to multiple international reports, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal offered Messi a two-year contract worth nearly $1 billion (approximately €900 million). This unprecedented offer would have made him the highest-paid athlete in history, surpassing even Cristiano Ronaldo’s lucrative contract with Al Nassr.

The Saudi Pro League’s ambition to attract global superstars led to aggressive negotiations, with the government reportedly backing the bid as part of its Vision 2030 sports expansion plan. The move would have seen Messi join a growing list of elite players — including Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kanté — who took their talents to Saudi Arabia.

However, Messi rejected the offer, choosing instead to sign with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. His decision wasn’t driven solely by money but by lifestyle, family comfort, and the opportunity to grow football in a developing market like the United States.

Messi’s move to Miami also aligned with his long-term interests: partnerships with Adidas, Apple TV’s MLS streaming deal, and commercial ventures through his company, Messi Group. While the $1 billion Saudi offer was tempting, Messi prioritized legacy and influence over financial gain — a decision that earned widespread respect from fans and analysts alike.

Who Is More Rich, Ronaldo or Messi?

The eternal debate continues: Who is richer — Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi?

According to Forbes’ 2025 rankings, both players remain among the top five highest-paid athletes in the world, with their combined net worth exceeding $1 billion each. However, as of the most recent reports, Cristiano Ronaldo slightly edges out Lionel Messi in terms of total wealth.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Cristiano Ronaldo’s Net Worth: Around $600–650 million (USD) in liquid and asset wealth, excluding long-term brand equity. His annual earnings reportedly exceed $200 million, thanks largely to his record-breaking contract with Al Nassr and lucrative endorsement deals with Nike, Herbalife, and Clear.
• Lionel Messi’s Net Worth: Estimated at around $550–600 million (USD), with annual income ranging between $130–150 million. His deals with Adidas, Inter Miami, Apple, and PepsiCo contribute significantly to his fortune.

It’s worth noting, however, that Messi earns more through business ventures and passive income streams, including the Messi Store fashion brand and multiple real estate holdings in Argentina, Barcelona, and Miami.

So while Ronaldo might currently hold a slight financial edge, Messi’s brand is considered more family-oriented and stable, appealing to a broader global demographic. Ultimately, both legends have transcended the sport — transforming their fame into multi-generational wealth and cultural influence.

Kerala’s Messi Dream — What Went Wrong?

For weeks, excitement in Kerala had reached fever pitch. Billboards, promotional videos, and fan events were planned across Kochi as the state prepared to host Lionel Messi’s Argentina in a friendly match on November 17, 2025.

The match was expected to be one of the biggest sporting events in Indian history, with ticket prices soaring and hotels in Kochi fully booked. Local authorities and private sponsors had begun extensive preparations at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, which was set to host over 60,000 fans.

However, the dream collapsed when the Argentina Football Association (AFA) announced that the national team would only play one friendly match in Angola next month, citing “logistical adjustments and team readiness” as reasons.

According to sources, the AFA prioritized the Angola trip due to sponsorship commitments and the timing of South American qualifiers. The Kerala match, though exciting, would have required longer travel time and significant coordination, making it difficult for players like Messi, Di María, and Martínez to recover before the next international window.

Sponsors confirmed the cancellation soon after the AFA’s decision, ending weeks of speculation and leaving fans disappointed.

The Global Impact of Messi’s Decisions

Whether it’s choosing a club or a country to play in, every decision Messi makes impacts millions. His absence from India highlights the growing global demand for elite football talent — and the logistical challenges that come with it.

Despite the setback, Indian football organizers remain optimistic. Officials have expressed hopes of bringing Argentina — or at least Inter Miami — to India in the future. Considering Messi’s global outreach through Major League Soccer’s expansion, such a possibility cannot be ruled out entirely.

Meanwhile, Messi continues to focus on his club and international responsibilities. Inter Miami is preparing for a crucial MLS campaign, and Argentina remains one of the favorites to lift the Copa América 2026.

Messi’s Legacy: Beyond Borders

Even without setting foot in Kerala this November, Lionel Messi’s influence has already touched millions of Indian fans. From kids wearing his iconic No. 10 jersey to murals in Kolkata and Kochi, Messi’s legacy transcends geography.

He’s more than a footballer — he’s a symbol of dedication, humility, and artistry. Whether he’s scoring breathtaking goals, mentoring young players, or inspiring new generations, Messi’s story continues to define football’s golden era.

As the world watches his twilight years unfold in Miami and on the international stage, one thing remains certain: Messi may not have come to India this time, but his magic continues to travel everywhere.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s cancellation of the Kerala friendly is a disappointment for Indian fans, but it underscores his careful approach to balancing commitments at this stage of his career. He hasn’t retired, he’s still competing at the highest level, and his choices continue to shape global football narratives.

Whether turning down a billion-dollar offer or continuing to represent Argentina, Messi’s influence goes far beyond trophies or transfer fees — it’s about inspiring the world through excellence.

For now, fans in India will have to wait — but hope, much like Messi’s legacy, never fades.