WATCH: Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez receives huge cheers from Kolkata crowd after promising to bring Lionel Messi to India

Emiliano Martinez and Lionel Messi. (Source: Twitter)

FIFA World Cup 2022 winner Emiliano Martinez made a big promise to Indian football fans during his two-day visit to Kolkata. Overwhelmed by the warm reception and love he has received from Indians, the Argentine said he would like to bring Lionel Messi to pay in India someday.

Martinez was welcomed at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport on Monday by a large crowd of passionate supporters who had gathered to see the man who played a key part in Argentina's World Cup triumph in Qatar. On Tuesday, he visited two public events one at Milan Mela Prangan and at Mohun Bagan tent, where he enthralled hundreds of football fans.

The Aston Villa player paid a visit to Sreebhumi Sporting Club the next day, where he said it was a dream come true to visit India. The 30-year-old also said that he wants to bring Argentina icon Messi to India. His statement garnered a loud roar from the audience as the people of Kolkata demonstrated their affection for their beloved 'Messiah'.

”I am really pleased to be here. It’s a dream come true coming to India. I’m walking today through the streets, going in the car through the streets today made me realize how beautiful this country is and how pleased I am to be here. So, thank you very much for coming, Let’s enjoy the show and this is not over. I want to bring Messi to play here in India.”

Watch the video below: 

“I want to bring Leo Messi to play here in India!” @emimartinezz1 pic.twitter.com/n48p8MGMtw

— Leo Messi 🔟 Fan Club (@WeAreMessi) July 5, 2023

Messi had previously been to India for a FIFA international friendly

Messi had earlier visited India in 2011 with the Argentina team for a FIFA international friendly against Venezuela. Despite not scoring in that match, the 36-year-old entertained a packed Salt Lake Stadium with his presence and beautiful assists. It was Messi's first match as captain of La Albiceleste and they won it 1–0.

During his visit to the 'City of Joy', Martinez is reported to have met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly. He also participated in a memorial event for Argentina legend Diego Maradona and spent quality time with the underprivileged children.