Messi’s Surprise Offer Rejected by Saudi Pro League Chief

According to Saudi sports official Abdullah Hammad, the Argentine legend’s camp reached out during the last Club World Cup. The offer was a short-term deal for Messi to join the Saudi Pro League while Major League Soccer paused for nearly four months. 

The response was unexpected. “The minister of sports rejected it,” Hammad said in a podcast with Thmanyah. “The player wanted to remain in shape and prepare himself for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.”

Saudi Arabia is a country that’s spent billions to lure stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema. Yet when the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner wanted in, even briefly, the door stayed closed.

Messi’s motive was simple. With the MLS on break until February, he wanted to stay sharp before the 2026 World Cup. 

Saudi Arabia saw it differently. It’s not about rejecting Messi the player. It’s about sending a message. The Pro League wants to be seen as a powerhouse, not a warm-up act. 

Meanwhile, Messi’s situation back home in the United States looks busy. Inter Miami’s playoff push has him firing again. Two goals in their 3–1 win over Nashville reminded everyone he’s still got plenty left in those boots. Thirty-one league goals this season. The crowd’s reaction is always electric when he plays. 

Still, the question lingers. What does this mean for Messi’s World Cup ambitions? He hasn’t confirmed whether he’ll lead Argentina in 2026. 

And Saudi Arabia’s decision was more than a rejection. Maybe it was a statement that their league no longer needs global validation. And that’s where this story stings a little, even for Messi.