Lionel Messi's India Tour Sparks Debate on Domestic Football Support

Lionel Messi's recent tour across India has sparked a heated debate about the state of domestic football in the country. Veteran player Sandesh Jhingan called for fans to shift their focus towards supporting local leagues, highlighting the stark contrast between the excitement generated by international stars and the struggles faced by Indian football. While fans celebrated Messi's presence, they also expressed frustration over the national team's poor performance. Jhingan's comments have opened up a broader conversation about the future of football in India, questioning whether the enthusiasm can translate into long-term support for homegrown talent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 20:09 IST

The Impact of Messi's Visit on Indian Football

The recent tour of Lionel Messi across India ignited a significant discussion regarding the state of football in the country. Veteran national team player Sandesh Jhingan urged fans to focus more on domestic football, aiming to promote a deeper dialogue about the sport's sustainability in India. However, his call was met with considerable backlash from fans.

Messi's Tour Highlights Football's Popularity

Messi's journey spanned four Indian cities, captivating millions and creating an unprecedented football atmosphere. Stadiums were packed, with fans spending large sums to see the football legend, and a statue of Messi was even erected in Kolkata.

This 'GOAT Tour' starkly contrasted the enthusiasm for international football with the struggles of India's domestic leagues, which face poor performance and dwindling support.

Jhingan's Plea for Domestic Football

While acknowledging the excitement Messi generated, Jhingan emphasized the urgent need for support for Indian football. He expressed concern over the precarious state of the domestic football scene, stating, "At a time when our football ecosystem is in jeopardy, we risk having no active domestic football ahead of us."

He pointed out the disparity in funding, lamenting that while crores were spent on Messi's tour, there seems to be little willingness to invest in local talent.

Addressing Accountability and Performance

Jhingan accepted responsibility for the national team's poor international performances, which have seen a decline in FIFA rankings. He noted, "I understand the criticism we face, and I take responsibility for our results. However, football is influenced by structure and stability, not just individual performances."

He expressed hope that Messi's visit would lead to a broader discussion about nurturing football in India.

Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag

Despite Jhingan's measured approach, social media erupted with mixed reactions. Many fans criticized him and the national team for their lack of success.

One fan remarked, "We are tired of you. There are many young defenders who deserve a chance to shine. Please step aside, Sandesh."

Another questioned the team's performance against rivals, asking, "What does Bangladesh have that is better than India in sports?"

Fans also highlighted the contradiction between the massive support for the team and its disappointing results, with one noting that attendance at matches remains high despite poor performances.

Broader Implications for Indian Football

Jhingan's remarks have sparked a larger conversation about the future of Indian football, focusing on infrastructure, investment, and talent development. While Messi's visit showcased the potential for football in India, it also underscored the frustrations surrounding domestic neglect and international underperformance.

As the excitement from the GOAT Tour fades, the pressing question remains: Can India convert this momentary enthusiasm into sustained support for local talent and the development of football?