It has been almost two years since Inter Miami triumphantly won the transfer contest for Lionel Messi, who was initially thought to be joining a Saudi Arabian team. As things stand in 2025, the anticipation is far less intense than it once was.
Current expectations, shared by circles in both MLS and the Saudi Pro League, indicate that Messi is likely to extend his contract with Miami. Owner Jorge Mas previously mentioned a “60 to 90 day” timeframe to finalize Messi’s future. While a new deal appears imminent, Messi’s stay in Miami for another year remains probable.
However, until any contracts are signed, Saudi Arabia has not given up on recruiting the world’s premier football figure. According to CBS Sports sources, plans to approach Messi gained momentum last month, spearheaded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which could present the richest sports contract in history to lure Messi from the United States to the Middle East.
Should Messi make the move, his choices of clubs would be extensive. Al-Ahli, the reigning Asian champions, have shown consistent interest in the 38-year-old, but reports indicate he would also have the option to join one of PIF’s clubs like Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, or Al-Nassr. An additional option would be Neom SC, a club financed by PIF designed for the future city of Neom.
If Messi chooses to play alongside N’Golo Kante and Karim Benzema, Al-Ittihad would be the ideal destination. Alternatively, a shift to Al-Nassr would reignite his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, creating buzz as both icons potentially conclude their careers on the same team. There are also factions within PIF eager to see Messi in the Al-Hilal colors, making the Riyadh derby a highly anticipated event.
Nevertheless, there is a more cautious approach regarding plans for Messi’s arrival this time compared to summer 2023 when PIF was convinced of securing his contract. At that point, as soon as a deal with Inter Miami surfaced, jets were prepared to fly both Messi and his father to Riyadh for signing with Al-Hilal. Currently, Saudi insiders speculate that Messi will choose to extend his time in Florida, while preparations for a possible move will stay in place, ensuring they remain ready until he retires from professional play.
Messi previously expressed his interest in the Saudi league, appreciating the growing competition: “I was considering a move to the Saudi league. I understand the country and they have set up a very strong competition that could evolve into a major league in the future. It was between Saudi Arabia and MLS, both options presented interesting opportunities.”
Until any official decisions are made, it appears that Messi will likely stay with MLS. However, Saudi Arabia is poised, eager for a chance.
