Messi's meeting with Indian fans turns into a major disaster: What happened? | OneFootball

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A planned celebration for Indian football fans, centered around a meet-and-greet with global icon Lionel Messi in Kolkata, descended into disarray and disappointment. The event, which followed Messi's arrival in India after winning the MLS title and the unveiling of a statue in his honor, was marred by poor organization and brief access to the star.

Frustration boiled over among supporters, with many now requesting refunds. One attendee expressed that the event seemed tailored for dignitaries and their families, leaving ordinary fans with severely limited visibility. As reported by the Touchline channel on social media platform X:

"Messi's Kolkata visit turns sour as fans vent anger over mismanaged meet-and-greet; calls for refunds grow."

Another fan revealed that the actual interaction with Messi lasted only around ten minutes. The discontent escalated to the point where some agitated supporters resorted to vandalizing parts of the Salt Lake Stadium, the venue for the ill-fated gathering.