As Lionel Messi continues to make waves in the MLS with Inter Miami, reports have surfaced that Saudi Arabia is quietly making moves to potentially bring the global superstar to their league. According to sources like ESPN, the kingdom’s powerful Public Investment Fund (PIF) has initiated discussions with Messi’s representatives about a possible transfer in January 2025, six months before his current contract expires.
Following a spectacular debut season in 2023, Inter Miami has encountered challenges in their sporting endeavors. Despite Messi’s stellar performances, the team has struggled to secure favorable results. Issues such as defensive vulnerabilities, a lack of depth in the squad, and underwhelming displays under coach Javier Mascherano have raised doubts about the ambitious “Barça 2.0” project centered around Messi, Busquets, Alba, and Suárez. On the field, Messi often finds himself carrying the team single-handedly, leading to difficulties for Miami when he is not at his best.
As the Club World Cup approaches, Inter Miami faces the task of proving their credibility in the sporting arena. However, Saudi Arabia is keeping a close eye on the situation. The PIF, which holds majority ownership in clubs like Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli, has aspirations of adding the 2022 World Cup winner to enhance the global appeal of their league, similar to their successful acquisition of Cristiano Ronaldo. Among these clubs, Al-Hilal is considered to be in the best position to secure Messi’s signature if the opportunity arises.
Despite being 37 years old, Messi remains committed to his role in Miami and his efforts to elevate the MLS. Nevertheless, the Saudis are strategically positioning themselves for a potential blockbuster deal in the future, should the prospect of realizing Messi’s American dream wane.
