In a surprising revelation, Saudi Arabia has reportedly rejected an offer from Lionel Messi to play a short stint in the Saudi Pro League ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Yes, you read that right, the same country that brought Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema on board actually turned down the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Messi Wanted to Stay in Shape
The news came from Abdullah Hammad, CEO of the Mahd Sports Academy, who disclosed a podcast with Saudi media platform Thmanyah.
“During the last Club World Cup, Messi’s team contacted me and offered for him to play in Saudi Arabia because the MLS will stop for nearly four months,” Hammad revealed. “The player wanted to remain in shape and prepare himself for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.”
The idea was simple: since the Major League Soccer (MLS) season takes a long winter break, Messi was exploring a short-term move to stay match-fit. It’s something football has seen before, like David Beckham’s loan spell at AC Milan while contracted with LA Galaxy back in 2010.
Saudi Sports Ministry Said ‘No’
Hammad went on to explain that he relayed the proposal to the Saudi Minister of Sports, who was quick to decline it.
“The minister made it clear that the Saudi league would not serve as a preparation platform for other tournaments,” he said.
When asked directly whether Saudi Arabia had rejected Messi, Hammad confirmed without hesitation: “That’s true.”
The response might come as a surprise to many, especially considering Saudi Arabia’s aggressive sports expansion strategy over the past few years.
But the reasoning seems to lie in protecting the league’s image, ensuring it is viewed as a destination of ambition, not just a temporary fitness stopover.
Saudi League’s Star-Studded Transformation
Since Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at Al-Nassr following the 2022 World Cup, the Saudi Pro League has gone through a remarkable transformation. What once seemed like a distant footballing outpost is now home to Neymar, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and several other big European names.
The Saudi project isn’t just about player signings, though. The kingdom has invested heavily in football infrastructure and global partnerships and is now preparing to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a milestone that reflects its long-term commitment to becoming a central player in global football.
Messi’s Saudi Link
Messi, meanwhile, has had his fair share of links with Saudi Arabia. Before joining Inter Miami in 2023, rumours were swirling about a potential move to the Gulf kingdom, especially given his ambassadorship for Saudi tourism.
Eventually, he chose the MLS instead, joining David Beckham’s Inter Miami, where he continues to make headlines both on and off the pitch.
While rejecting Messi might sound shocking at first glance, it’s also symbolic. Saudi football wants to be seen as a competitive, professional league, not a temporary stop for global stars to maintain fitness.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
