Angry fans threw chairs, bottles, and vandalized banners at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium during Lionel Messi’s India tour. Thousands paid up to ₹12,000 to see the football legend but were left upset when Messi’s appearance lasted just 20 minutes. He walked around the pitch but was hidden behind a large group of officials and celebrities. Security whisked Messi away early, causing frustration among fans. Some fans shouted, “Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi ... Why did they call us then?” One told ANI they paid a month’s salary for the ticket. The crowd erupted after the event ended abruptly. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she was “deeply disturbed and shocked” and apologized to Messi and sports lovers. She announced a full enquiry to find fault and prevent future issues. Messi’s GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) tour includes stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. It began with unveiling a 70ft statue of Messi in Kolkata, created over 27 days by 45 workers. Fans filled the stadium chanting, wearing jerseys and “I love Messi” headbands. Some had hoped to watch a short exhibition game, which did not happen. Fans lined the roads and outside Messi’s hotel early Saturday, hoping to catch a glimpse. Hitesh, a 24-year-old lawyer from Bengaluru, flew nearly 1,900 km for the event. “Messi is the player I related with the most, no one can match his talent. He gives me hope,” he said. The city of Kolkata has a strong football fan base, unlike much of cricket-driven India. The incident sparked disappointment but also added tension to Messi’s much-anticipated visit. Fans can still visit the ‘Hola Messi’ fan zone featuring a life-size Messi replica, trophy displays, and a Miami home replica with mannequins of Messi and his family.