The 38-year-old Argentine legend currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, having joined the club from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023. ..Continue Reading
On Sunday, he added two more goals to his tally, bringing his total to 52 goals in 64 appearances for the Herons, who cruised to a 4-1 win over Montreal.
Despite his continued brilliance, Messi’s future remains uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of the year.
Even at this late stage of his career, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is expected to attract significant interest if he becomes a free agent.
According to reports from France, Saudi Arabian champions Al Ahli are actively trying to lure Messi to the Pro League, although Inter Miami are eager to extend his stay beyond 2025.
Back in 2023, Messi turned down a record-breaking offer from Al Hilal—reportedly worth over €1.5 billion across three years—in favor of a move to the United States.
Now, with Cristiano Ronaldo having recently renewed his contract with Al Nassr, the idea of reigniting their legendary rivalry in Saudi Arabia could be tempting for Messi.
Speaking about the options he had available before joining Miami to TIME in 2023, Messi said: “The truth is that fortunately, I had several options on the table that were interesting, and I had to analyze them and think, even weigh them up with my family, before making the final decision to come to Miami.
“My first option was to return to Barcelona, but it was not possible
“It is also true that later I was thinking a lot about going to the Saudi league, where I know the country, and they have created a very powerful competition that can become an important league in the near future
“As the country’s tourism ambassador, it was a destination that attracted me, especially because I’ve enjoyed everything I have visited, because of how football is growing in the country and because of the effort they are putting into creating a top competition.”
According to The Guardian, Messi’s promotional agreement with the Saudi Tourism Authority is estimated to be worth approximately $25 million over a three-year period.
As part of the deal, Messi is expected to participate in marketing campaigns, share sponsored content on social media, make appearances at charitable events, and enjoy fully funded trips to the country.
With Saudi Arabia set to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, having two of the sport’s greatest icons—Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo—playing in the Saudi league would be a powerful way to capture global attention and elevate the tournament’s profile.
