Lionel Messi will headline the “Champions of the People” exhibition match in Hyderabad on December 13, with CM Revanth Reddy captaining the Telangana side. Event ties into Telangana Rising summit and Vision 2047 campaign

In a landmark moment for Indian football, global icon Lionel Messi will arrive in Hyderabad on December 13 as part of his GOAT India Tour 2025. The Argentine legend is set to play an exhibition match titled Champions of the People: Telangana vs Argentina at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Unusually, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, known to be an Arsenal supporter, will lead the home team.

Sources indicate that the CM’s squad may include talented students from government schools, adding a symbolic touch by linking grassroots sports to the Telangana Rising Global Summit. During the summit, Messi is reportedly being considered as a potential brand ambassador for the state’s ambitious Vision 2047.

The announcement has created excitement among football enthusiasts and supporters of the CM, who view his participation as a bold attempt to project Telangana on the international stage. However, some critics have questioned whether such high-profile events are justifiable amid pressing developmental priorities.

Analysis: While Messi’s visit could significantly boost Telangana’s global visibility and inspire young athletes, officials must balance spectacle with substance. If leveraged well, the event could enhance the state's sports infrastructure and investment appeal. But without clear long-term outcomes, it risks being seen as an expensive show rather than a meaningful development step.