Former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has asserted that Lionel Messi’s involvement in European football has come to an end, largely due to his diminishing mobility. Petit also predicted that Messi will retire following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite speculation about the Argentine star making a surprise return to Barcelona. This perspective was shared amid ongoing discussions about Messi’s future in the sport and his current status as a key player in American soccer.
Although both Lionel Messi, 38, and Cristiano Ronaldo, 40, are in the late stages of their careers, they continue to perform at high levels for their clubs and national teams. Ronaldo recently extended his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr until 2027, while Messi currently plays for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, joining the club in July 2023. Messi is set to become a free agent at the end of this season but has an option to extend his stay with Inter Miami for another year.
Inter Miami remains hopeful about retaining Messi, but rumors persist linking him to a potential loan back to Barcelona. During his long stint with the Catalan club from 2004 to 2021, Messi solidified his reputation as one of football’s all-time greats before departing for Paris Saint-Germain due to Barcelona’s financial difficulties.
Emmanuel Petit Weighs in on Messi’s Prospects of Returning to Barcelona
Emmanuel Petit shared his views on Lionel Messi’s rumored comeback to Barcelona during an interview with EscapistMagazine, quoted by GOAL.
“Lionel Messi has been linked with a loan back to Barcelona, but Lamine Yamal isn’t going to be on the bench. Messi could play in the number 10, but we know that he doesn’t run and can Barcelona control the midfield with only two players in there? There is no way we will see Messi back at Barcelona. I wish him the best in getting to the 2026 World Cup and I think then he will retire.”
—Emmanuel Petit, Former Chelsea Midfielder
“Could Messi go on loan elsewhere in Europe before the World Cup? I think he has had really special treatment in America and it would be hard.”
—Emmanuel Petit, Former Chelsea Midfielder
Petit further compared Messi’s situation to that of Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing the challenges both face due to their age and reduced physical capacity.
“It’s the same situation with Ronaldo and who is able to pay those wages at their ages, you need 10 other players to do the running and top European sides don’t work like that. You don’t see players in modern football that don’t have much movement, that’s why Messi’s time in Europe is over.”
—Emmanuel Petit, Former Chelsea Midfielder
Despite these assertions, Cristiano Ronaldo has recently demonstrated his ongoing value to European football, playing a significant role in Portugal’s victory in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League.
Messi Linked to a Potential Move That Could Renew Rivalry with Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia
French publication L’Equipe, cited by Firstpost, reports that Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli is attempting to persuade Lionel Messi to leave Major League Soccer and join their ranks. This move would position Messi opposite Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr, possibly reigniting their long-standing rivalry in the Middle East.
Discussions between Messi’s representatives and Al-Ahli are said to be ongoing, although details remain unclear. Messi previously opted to join Inter Miami over Al-Hilal when arriving in America in 2023, but Al-Ahli hopes to present a more appealing offer. The club‘s roster includes notable players like Riyad Mahrez and Ivan Toney, which may factor into its recruitment strategy.
In the MLS this season, Messi has been one of the league’s top performers, tallying 18 goals and contributing seven assists in 25 appearances across all competitions. His proven success in America could give him the confidence to excel if he accepts a move to the Saudi Pro League.
Implications for Messi’s Legacy and Career
The debate over Lionel Messi’s European future highlights the challenges aging football legends face in sustaining top-level performance. Emmanuel Petit’s assessment underscores the physical demands of modern European football, which makes prolonged careers difficult for players with decreased mobility. Messi’s continued influence in Major League Soccer and potential moves abroad indicate that while his time in Europe may have ended, his impact on the global stage persists.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Messi’s career decisions will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, with many anticipating his retirement following the tournament. Whether he remains in MLS, ventures into the Saudi Pro League, or remains linked with his old club Barcelona, his presence in the sport will remain significant until his official departure.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi a billionaire?
A. By 2024, Lionel Messi’s net worth is expected to be between USD 650 million and 800 million. This makes him among the richest and best-paid athletes globally. His varied investments also contribute significantly to his enormous wealth.