Several thousand fans had gathered at the Yuva Bharati Kirangan Kolkata to have a glimpse of the ‘Greatest Of All Times,’ but they had to go back home with a broken heart. The common people’s view was obstructed by politicians, celebrities, and VIP guests, leaving many unable to see Messi properly despite paying huge prices for tickets.
What are the eyewitnesses saying on social media?
According to eyewitness accounts and social media posts, the spectators are expressing their anger that Messi’s on-field appearance was far shorter than expected. It reportedly lasted for only minutes before he left the venue. The fans felt overshadowed by the heavy presence of political figures and actors around Messi, which significantly limited their chances to catch a glimpse of the little magician. One user mentioned on social media, “Unfortunately, for thousands of attendees who paid premium prices, with tickets costing around 16,000, the reality was a catastrophic organisational failure that delivered disappointment instead of a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
"Messi's team cancelled the event as security was not able to handle the chaos. I belong to a middle-class family. I know how my father managed the money for the ticket. I'm crying. I'm crying while typing this.” Another user mentioned.
The Maradona visit in 2008
Another popular angle has taken over social media: ‘Maradona’s visit in 2008 vs Messi’s visit in 2025.’ It is not the first time that the city has witnessed the arrival of foreign superstars. The City of Joy has witnessed the coming of legends like Pelé, Lev Yashin, Diego Armando Maradona, Lionel Messi earlier in 2012, Oliver Kahn, and Diego Forlan. It was the first time that such a ruckus had taken over the ‘Mecca of Indian Football.’ Diego Armando Maradona came to the city and enjoyed his time. He was enjoying every bit of the event, interacting with the fans. But things quickly spiralled into chaos as Messi came to the city on Saturday, leaving fans heartbroken.
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Security personnel struggled to manage the situation as discontent among the crowd grew. Several fans voiced their disappointment over social platforms, criticising the event’s organisation and prioritisation of VIPs over general ticket-holding spectators.
