Lionel Messi will unveil a 21-meter (70-foot) statue of himself in India on Saturday as he embarks on a three-day tour of the country that has sparked a fan frenzy.<\/p>\n
The iron sculpture in Kolkata, which shows Messi holding aloft the World Cup, is part of a so-called GOAT Tour that will take in four Indian cities and a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.<\/p>\n
The 38-year-old Argentina and Inter Miami superstar will unveil the monument virtually rather than in person for security reasons, AFP said.<\/p>\n
A “Hola Messi” fan zone has also been set up in Kolkata where on display is a life-sized replica of Messi sat on a throne.<\/p>\n
The hall also recreates his Miami home, complete with mannequins of his family members.<\/p>\n
Football fan Samir Nandy said it would be “a dream come true” to catch a glimpse of his idol.<\/p>\n
“Legends are not made by success alone. It is his resilience that made me believe in him,” Nandy, 64, said in Kolkata.<\/p>\n
“The statue is a fitting tribute to him.”<\/p>\n
Monti Paul, the statue’s main sculptor, told AFP the structure was built inside 40 days.<\/p>\n
“It’s a matter of pride to build the sculpture of Messi. It’s the tallest statue I have made,” he said.<\/p>\n
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will also meet Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly during his whirlwind trip to Kolkata.<\/p>\n
Ahead of his arrival, Messi said it was an honor to visit India and interact with the fans.<\/p>\n
“India is a very special country and I have good memories from my time there 14 years ago — the fans were fantastic,” Messi said in a statement.<\/p>\n
“India is a passionate football nation and I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game.”<\/p>\n
After Kolkata, where Messi will play a short friendly match, he will head to Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.<\/p>\n
In Hyderabad he will attend a concert in his honor and play another friendly.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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