Sofia Quijada
As Lionel Messi’s contract with Inter Miami edges toward its December expiry, speculation over his next move is heating up — and Saudi Arabia could be the next stage for the footballing icon.
According to reports from L’Équipe, Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli are reigniting their interest in signing Messi. Their ambition? Add the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to a roster already bolstered by continental success, including their latest AFC Champions League triumph.
It’s not the first time Saudi clubs have courted the Argentine maestro. After leaving PSG in the summer of 2023, Messi was approached but ultimately chose the MLS. Still, Saudi officials have never cooled on their pursuit, making him a consistent top priority. With the Gulf state preparing to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the allure of bringing Messi to Saudi soil carries more weight than ever.
While no financial terms have been disclosed, industry insiders suggest that Saudi authorities are prepared to spare no expense. Their willingness to invest heavily, as demonstrated by previous marquee signings, hints at a potentially record-breaking package waiting in the wings.
For Inter Miami, the mission is simple: retain their star for a longer-term project in Major League Soccer. Club executives are reportedly eager to extend Messi’s stay beyond the original two-year deal, banking on his transformative impact both on and off the pitch.
Will Messi choose one final adventure under the Arabian lights? Or will he continue building his legacy stateside? Either way, the global football community will be watching every move.