As Lionel Messi gears up for a visit to the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai this December, football lovers across India are celebrating yet another chapter in the country’s growing connection with the beautiful game. Over the years, several football greats have visited India, creating unforgettable memories. Here’s a look at some of the biggest names who have set foot in the country:
Ronaldinho Gaucho
Ronaldinho in Kolkata (Screengrab)
Brazilian star Ronaldinho has made multiple visits to India over the years. From playing in futsal leagues to attending promotional and grassroots events, his visits have drawn huge crowds. Known for his flair and charm, Ronaldinho remains a fan favourite across the country.Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona in Kolkata (TOI Photo)
The Argentine legend visited India twice, first in 2008. In Kolkata, he was welcomed like a hero, with top-level security and even helicopters arranged for his movement. He laid the foundation stone for the Indian Football School and met thousands of fans. His bond with Kolkata was strong and emotional.Pele
Pele’s visit to India (Screengrab)
Football icon Pelé visited Kolkata in 1977 with New York Cosmos for a match against Mohun Bagan. The city came to a standstill as fans filled the streets to catch a glimpse of the three-time World Cup winner. The moment remains one of Indian football’s most cherished memories.
David Beckham
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors Sachin Tendulkar and David Beckham look on prior to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023 Semi Final match between India and New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
In 2023, Beckham visited India as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador during the Cricket World Cup. He attended the India vs. New Zealand semi-final in Mumbai and met Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. He also visited UNICEF-backed programmes in Gujarat and praised India’s warmth and spirit.
Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane during his India visit
Zidane visited Mumbai in 2016 to promote a real estate brand. Greeted by large crowds and escorted by police, the French World Cup winner and Real Madrid legend was warmly received by Indian fans during his short but impactful trip.Lionel Messi (in 2011)
Lionel Messi’s India visit (Screengrab)
Before his upcoming trip, Messi had already visited India in 2011. He led Argentina in a FIFA international friendly against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The match was historic and drew massive interest, giving fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to watch Messi live in action.
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Besides these top stars, several more legends including the likes of Alessandro Del Piero, Roberto Carlos, Diego Forlan, Zico, Dimitar Berbatov and many more have played in the country in the initial seasons of the Indian Super League as well.As the football world once again turns its eyes to India with Messi’s upcoming visit, fans can look back fondly at these iconic moments that brought the sport closer to home.
