Lionel Messi’s father will meet with Al-Hilal and the star could be Cristiano Ronaldo’s rival
Could Messi reignite his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia?
Lionel Messi’s future at Inter Miami could take a dramatic turn, as Al-Hilal prepares a new approach to sign the Argentine superstar. According to Saudi outlet Al-Yaum, a meeting between Jorge Messi, the player’s father and agent, and Al-Hilal president Fahad Bin Nafel is expected to take place soon in the United States, where the FIFA Club World Cup is currently underway.
Al-Hilal Still Dreaming of Messi
Al-Hilal backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) have long made Messi a top target in their mission to boost the Saudi Pro League’s global profile. The club previously offered the forward a €400 million-per-year contract in 2023, which was turned down in favor of a move to Inter Miami and Major League Soccer.
Now, however, Al-Hilal believes the 38-year-old is open to a new challenge. With Messi’s contract in the U.S. running until the end of 2025, the door remains open for negotiations especially as he is now eligible to sign a pre-contract with any club worldwide starting in January 2025.
“Messi is focused on the Club World Cup, but Al-Hilal is prepared to meet all of his conditions,” reports Al-Yaum.
Inter Miami: For How Much Longer?
Messi has brought massive commercial attention and international exposure to Inter Miami since his arrival in mid-2023. But behind the scenes, there are whispers of dissatisfaction and Saudi representatives see an opportunity.
With Cristiano Ronaldo expected to extend his contract with Al-Nassr, the Saudi league is once again eyeing the ultimate marketing coup: Messi vs. Ronaldo, revived in the Middle East.
What Happens Next?
- Meeting location: United States (during Club World Cup)
- Parties involved: Jorge Messi and Al-Hilal president Bin Nafel
- Objective: Explore potential terms for Messi’s transfer post-2025
While Messi has not indicated any desire to leave Inter Miami immediately, Al-Hilal’s financial muscle and determination could test his commitment to MLS in the long term.
Messi vs Ronaldo: One Last Dance?
If the deal goes through, Messi would join Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League, reigniting one of football’s most iconic rivalries this time in Riyadh vs. Jeddah instead of El Clásico.
Whether this dream clash becomes reality will depend on Messi’s priorities in the final stretch of his career: legacy, lifestyle, or legacy-building with another mega-contract?
