Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who played a key role in the South American team’s victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, arrived in Kolkata on the 24th to welcome local fans.

Fans cheering for Argentina to win the exhibition tournament cheered after the footballer announced himself at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. Martinez will spend time in the city from July 3-6, taking part in meetings with local dignitaries. He will also meet students at Santosh Mitra Square and attend the gate opening ceremony of Mohun Bagan Club.

“I am really excited, feeling great. It was a dream (coming to India). I had promised to come to India, I am happy to be here. India is a beautiful country,” Martinez told reporters at the airport.

Amid stringent security measures, the 2022 World Cup Golden Gloves winner checked into a 5-star hotel in EM Bypass. There are many events planned for Martinez over the next two days.Mohun Bagan officials warmly welcomed him at the airport where hundreds of Argentinian fans waved flowers for Albiceleste.

His activities in the city begin with an afternoon program called “Tahader Katha” where he will interact with around 500 students at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan. In the evening there is an exhibition match between Mohun Bagan All Stars and Kolkata Police All Stars.

Martínez gave Hasina an Albiceleste-signed jersey, and was also seen taking pictures and taking baipahi (falcons). Martinez’s visit added football legends to the city.