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After elimination from the Club World Cup, an expiring contract in December, and tempting offers from the Gulf, Lionel Messi is yet to decide his next move. At 38, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner could leave MLS and Inter Miami, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a real possibility. According to L’Equipe, Al Ahli have opened discussions with Messi’s camp, with the prospect of reuniting him with Cristiano Ronaldo once again in the Saudi Pro League—a rivalry that would capture the world’s attention.
Saudi clubs had already tried to lure Messi two years ago, but he chose Miami in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, his likely final chapter with Argentina. Fresh off their Asian Champions League triumph, Al Ahli are making a renewed push, hoping to bring Messi to Saudi Arabia and have him serve as an ambassador for the 2034 World Cup set to take place in the kingdom.
The Saudis are prepared to go all-in financially, ready to offer Messi a contract on par with Cristiano Ronaldo’s, who recently renewed with Al Nassr on a deal worth €400 million. A figure that could shake Inter Miami’s resolve and potentially convince Messi to embark on a new chapter in his legendary career.
