A massive, 21-metre golden statue of Lionel Messi in Kolkata is set to be dismantled after structural experts raised serious safety alarms. The monument, which depicts the legendary Argentine footballer lifting the World Cup trophy, was erected last December during his visit to India. However, local authorities have recently observed the towering structure swaying dangerously in the wind, prompting urgent intervention. Maintenance crews were spotted scaling the figure this week to secure it with ropes, as officials now deem the site a potential risk to the public along the busy roadway.

State legislator Sharadwat Mukherjee confirmed that the government has prioritized the statue’s removal, noting that the task is proving to be more complex than initially anticipated. While there is no official word yet on whether the monument will be relocated or permanently retired, the decision underscores the city’s deep passion for football. Even though cricket remains India's dominant sport, the immense public interest in Messi reflects the growing love for football across the nation, making the removal of this tribute a significant moment for the local fan base.