Saudi Arabia has reportedly declined an opportunity to sign football icon Lionel Messi for a short-term deal in the Saudi Pro League before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a senior sports official.
Abdullah Hammad, the Chief Executive Officer of Mahd Sports Academy, revealed during a podcast with Saudi media outlet Thmanyah that Messi’s representatives reached out during the last Club World Cup to propose a temporary move to the Saudi league.
“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 said. “The player wanted to remain in shape and prepare himself for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.”
Drawing a parallel with past instances, Hammad added, “This happened with David Beckham when he was with Los Angeles Galaxy and went to AC Milan (in 2010).”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner joined Inter Miami in 2023 after a highly publicized link to Saudi clubs. Before his move to the United States, Messi spent two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain, following a legendary career at Barcelona that ended in 2021.
According to Hammad, he conveyed the offer to Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports, who ultimately turned it down. “The minister made it clear that the Saudi league would not serve as a preparation platform for other tournaments,” he explained.
When asked whether this meant the Saudi authorities had indeed rejected Messi’s offer, Hammad confirmed, “That’s true.”
Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s landmark signing with Al-Nassr after the 2022 World Cup, the Saudi Pro League has seen a surge in high-profile transfers from Europe, including Neymar, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kanté.
Saudi Arabia’s sports ambitions have also been underscored by its successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a move that solidifies the kingdom’s growing influence in global football.
What You Should Know
Lionel Messi’s representatives reportedly approached Saudi officials for a short-term deal to maintain his fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but the offer was declined.
The decision reflects Saudi Arabia’s stance on positioning its domestic league as a competitive platform rather than a preparatory ground for other tournaments.
