Football royalty meets India’s icon: Lionel Messi gifts signed Argentina jersey to Sunil Chhetri at Wankhede
Lionel Messi shared a special moment with Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri, who gifted him a signed Argentina jersey at the Wankhede Stadium. The unforgettable exchange took place during the GOAT India Tour 2025 event in Mumbai and delighted fans across the country.
It was an unforgettable and heartfelt moment at the Wankhede Stadium when Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi gifted his signed Argentina jersey to Indian football star Sunil Chhetri as part of the GOAT India Tour 2025. This gesture, which represents the mutual admiration of two of the most important names in their football careers, received great applause from the enthusiastic crowd gathered in the stadium.
The exchange took place in front of thousands of fans; most of them stood up as Messi presented the jersey to Chhetri. Chhetri thanked the audience as he had a brief chat with the World Cup-winning Argentinian player and stated that it was one of the most memorable moments of the Mumbai part of the tour.
Watch the video here:
Our own country has never treated Sunil Chhetri the way he should be treated but look at Lionel Messi, it shows him this respect.
This is what makes him the most humble person humanity has ever known!!
— (@jod_insane) December 14, 2025
Sunil Chhetri has often expressed his admiration for Messi’s impact on the global football stage. Receiving a signed jersey from the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner at a legendary venue like the Wankhede Stadium resonated deeply with Indian fans, adding significant meaning to the event.
GOAT India Tour 2025 was packed with unforgettable fan experiences and landmark events, but the jersey launch emerged as a striking reminder of the power of football to bridge the gaps. As Messi continues his tour in India, his exchange with Chhetri will be remembered as a powerful symbol of respect, inspiration and the collective spirit of the beautiful game.
Lionel Messi made his grand entrance at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday to loud cheers as the Argentinian superstar continues his much-anticipated GOAT India Tour 2025. The moment the World Cup winning captain stepped into the stadium the atmosphere turned into a football celebration and fans jumped to their feet to welcome one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Fans had filled the stands long before Messi’s arrival, waving Argentine flags, wearing the number 10 jersey and chanting his name in unison. Strict security measures were in place around the venue, but the palpable excitement among the fans was undeniable as Mumbai experienced a rare and historic sporting event.
Also read| ‘GOAT moment’ for fans as Lionel Messi meets Sachin Tendulkar at the iconic Wankhede stadium and receives his 2011 World Cup-winning cricket jersey
