Saudi Arabia declined an offer to sign football legend Lionel Messi for a short-term stint in the Saudi Pro League (SPL), according to a senior official.
Abdullah Hammad, the Mahd Sports Academy CEO, spoke on a recent Thmanyah podcast revealing the details of this unexpected interaction. Specifically, Hammad confirmed that Messi’s team approached him with a compelling proposal for the Argentine star to consider. This arrangement suggested Messi would play in Saudi Arabia while the Major League Soccer (MLS) season paused for four months.
Hammad detailed the specific timing of the proposal, explaining Messi’s representatives contacted him during the previous FIFA Club World Cup tournament. The player, consequently, wished to remain active and properly prepare himself for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup tournament. Hammad immediately relayed the short-term offer to the Saudi Minister of Sports for a decision on the matter.
However, the Minister rejected the proposition outright, forcefully stating the Saudi Pro League would not merely serve as a preparation platform for global competitions. The Kingdom viewed the SPL as a premier destination requiring full commitment, not simply a fitness training ground for star players.
Contrasting Paths: Messi vs. Ronaldo
The discussion additionally explored the significantly contrasting approaches between Lionel Messi and his longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi previously maintained specific, non-negotiable conditions and always remained deeply attached to the Barcelona football club.
Conversely, Ronaldo fully embraced the challenging prospect of a new culture, league, and continent when he ultimately joined Al Nassr in 2022.
Messi has long faced speculation about a move to Saudi Arabia since leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2023. Ultimately, he opted instead to sign for Inter Miami in the United States, where he recently extended his contract until the 2028 season.
The Saudi rejection confirms that the Kingdom prioritizes long-term dedication over attracting players seeking only temporary or transitional roles within the league.
