Reports indicate that Lionel Messi, the legendary FC Barcelona forward currently playing for Inter Miami, may soon leave Major League Soccer, as discussions with the Saudi Pro League have resumed. The 37-year-old’s future has become uncertain with his contract set to expire at the end of the year, sparking renewed speculation about a possible move to Saudi Arabia.
Messi was initially linked to the Saudi Pro League before his transfer to Inter Miami from Paris Saint-Germain, having considered offers from both regions. His decision to join MLS was seen as a significant step, but recent developments suggest the Saudi league continues to pursue the Argentine star actively.
Messi’s Previous Interest in the Saudi League
A few months into his MLS career, Messi expressed that he seriously considered relocating to the Saudi Pro League, highlighting his appreciation for the country and its growing football ambitions. He described the league as a “very powerful competition” with potential to become a leading force in global soccer, driven by the strong investment and rapid development he witnessed firsthand.
“I was thinking a lot about going to the Saudi league,”
—Lionel Messi, December 2023
He added that his role as Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambassador influenced his interest, enjoying his visits to the nation and the enthusiasm for football rooted in the league’s vision.
“It was Saudi Arabia or MLS, and both options seemed very interesting to me.”
—Lionel Messi
Current Performance and Contract Situation at Inter Miami
Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has delivered an impressive 49 goals and 24 assists across 59 appearances, helping raise the club‘s profile within MLS. Despite this success, the conclusion of his current contract later this year leaves his future with the club unresolved, which has fueled rumors about potential transfers back to Barcelona or elsewhere.
Renewed Negotiations with Saudi Investors
Journalist Rudy Galetti has reported that talks between Messi’s representatives and Saudi backers, particularly the Public Investment Fund (PIF), have recommenced with an aim to finalize a deal. Sources suggest the Saudi authorities are determined to bring Messi to their league as a marquee player alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, who is reportedly close to extending his stay at Al Nassr.
The talks are reportedly at an early stage, with no advanced agreements yet. Messi remains committed to Inter Miami for now, focusing on his immediate obligations in MLS and the upcoming Club World Cup.
“Contacts between the parties have just resumed, and both sides will explore the options in the coming weeks. Nothing is advanced yet, but the door is open. For now, Messi continues with Inter Miami, fully focused on his commitments in MLS and the Club World Cup with his current club, but the Saudi Investment Fund is determined to try again, this time hoping for a different outcome. Further developments are expected soon.”
—Report from journalist Rudy Galetti
Uncertainty Surrounds Potential Saudi Pro League Destination
The identity of the Saudi club that could sign Messi remains unknown, as discussions are contingent on Messi’s openness to a transfer. The PIF intends to gauge his intentions before considering which of the league’s prominent clubs—Al Ahli, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, or Al Nassr—would best suit him. This assessment phase will come later, once Messi signals a willingness to explore the move.
“The possible club Messi would be placed at in the Saudi Pro League has not been discussed yet. The PIF wants to understand Messi’s intentions first. Only when Messi opens up to a possible transfer will they move on to evaluate which of the four clubs – Al Ahli, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad or Al Nassr – could be more suitable for him. But it will be discussed later, in an eventual next stage, not yet now.”
—Report from journalist Rudy Galetti
What This Means for Messi and Global Football
The persistent interest from the Saudi Pro League reflects the broader ambition of Saudi Arabia to establish itself as a global football powerhouse by attracting elite players. Bringing Messi on board would greatly enhance the league’s international profile, complementing Ronaldo’s existing presence and the league’s ongoing investments aimed at raising competition levels.
For Messi, this moment represents a critical decision point in the twilight of his career, balancing competitive desire, legacy considerations, and off-field opportunities linked to his ambassadorial role. The coming weeks are likely to provide clarity on whether Messi will extend his spell in MLS or embark on a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning football landscape.