Five Kolhapur Footballers Selected to Play With Lionel Messi During His Mumbai Visit

Five young footballers from Kolhapur have been selected under Project Mahadeva to play alongside global football star Lionel Messi during his upcoming visit to Mumbai. The visit is part of Messi’s “GOAT Tour India 2025,” which aims to promote football and engage with youth across major cities.

Kolhapur | December 10, 2025:The chosen players  Aryan Powar, Aradhya Chougule, Rudra Swami, Sakshi Navale, and Divya Gaikwad  were identified for their exceptional talent at the school and district levels. They will have the unique opportunity to participate in training sessions and exhibition matches with Messi, gaining firsthand experience from one of the world’s most celebrated athletes.

Project Mahadeva, organized by the Maharashtra state sports department in collaboration with local football associations, seeks to identify and nurture grassroots talent. Selected youngsters receive a five-year development program including coaching, mentorship, and educational support to help them advance in football.

Messi’s visit to India, which includes stops in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, has generated widespread excitement among fans and the sporting community. The tour will feature football clinics, fan interactions, and public exhibition matches aimed at inspiring young players.

For the Kolhapur footballers, this opportunity represents a significant milestone in their careers and could open doors for national and international exposure. State sports authorities have emphasized that nurturing young talent through initiatives like Project Mahadeva is crucial for strengthening India’s presence in global football.

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