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Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has reportedly turned down an invitation to meet with Lionel Messi during the GOAT tour this month. The Argentine superstar is set to pay a visit to India for a number of activities in a 72-hour period this week.
Former India captain and record goalscorer Chhetri has, according to India Today, politely turned down an opportunity to meet up with Lionel Messi during his tour. The reason for this decision has been revealed to be the lack of footballing activities in Messi's itinerary for the tour. Chhetri believes that a meeting with Messi will not benefit Indian football in any way.
Messi is scheduled to tour four Indian cities between December 13th and 15th, participating in multiple events unconnected to football. The 38-year-old will visit Kolkata, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai, visiting three chief ministers, the prime minister, and a host of celebrities.
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Lionel Messi will attend a virtual unveiling of a 70-foot statue in Kolkata to commence his visit before flying to Hyderabad, where he will play an exhibition match. He will be accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul on his visit to India.
The Indian Super League is facing a period of struggles, as there is no clarity on when the top football competition in the country will resume. The All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) has failed to secure sponsors and broadcasters for the competition to go ahead this season. Chhetri, the fourth highest goalscorer in international football history, is likely unhappy with the state of the sport in his country.
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami seal deal for Rodrigo De Paul
Inter Miami have triggered the option to complete the permanent transfer for Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid. The MLS champions will pay $15 million for the services of the midfielder, who is one of Lionel Messi's most trusted lieutenants.
De Paul joined the Herons on an initial loan deal in the summer following a spell in Spain with Atletico Madrid. The 31-year-old has an agreement with Javier Mascherano's side to remain in Florida until the end of the 2029 MLS season.
Rodrigo De Paul has enjoyed a successful six-month spell with the Herons, helping them win the Eastern Conference title and the MLS Cup, both firsts. The former Udinese man was on target in the 3-1 win over Vancouver Whitecaps in the final of the MLS Cup, finding the net from a Messi assist. He played 23 times for the Herons across all competitions, scoring two goals.
