Messi in Advanced Talks to Join Saudi Club Al Ahli – Rivalry With Ronaldo May Reignite
Football legend Lionel Messi is reportedly in advanced negotiations to join Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, a move that could reignite his iconic rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo—this time in the Middle East.
According to French outlet L’Équipe, Al Ahli is actively pursuing the Inter Miami forward, aiming to bring him on board when his current Major League Soccer (MLS) contract expires in December 2025. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Messi Weighing Options as Inter Miami Pushes for Extension
While Inter Miami is eager to retain their marquee signing with a contract extension, Messi, 36, has yet to fully commit, sparking interest from several international clubs—including big-budget Saudi teams.
This isn’t Messi’s first link to Saudi Arabia. The World Cup winner already has a £18.4 million endorsement deal with the Saudi Tourism Authority, making the potential transition even more seamless.
Star-Studded Al Ahli Squad Could Add Another Icon
Should Messi finalize the deal, he will join the ranks of several big-name players currently at Al Ahli, including:
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Roberto Firmino (former Liverpool star)
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Riyad Mahrez (former Manchester City winger)
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Ivan Toney (Brentford striker, reportedly set to join soon)
Adding Messi would not only elevate the team’s attacking power but also boost global viewership for the Saudi Pro League.
Messi vs Ronaldo: A Rivalry Reborn?
The most tantalizing prospect of this move is the potential revival of football’s greatest rivalry: Messi vs Ronaldo.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al Nassr, recently extended his contract until 2027, virtually guaranteeing at least two full seasons of potential face-offs with Messi in Saudi Arabia.
“Messi vs Ronaldo in the Middle East? It would be box-office football all over again,” a fan tweeted, capturing the global sentiment.
What’s Next?
While negotiations are ongoing, fans across the world are watching closely. If confirmed, the deal would mark another major milestone in the Saudi Pro League’s bold ambition to establish itself as a global football powerhouse.