Messi turned down €1 billion to join Saudi club: Report
What's the story
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, has made a significant impact on Major League Soccer (MLS) since joining Inter Miami. His arrival has led to a substantial increase in both attendance and viewership. At 37, Messi is one of the most influential footballers, having achieved nearly everything. As per Fox Sports, the Argentine had rejected a €1 billion offer to join the Saudi league.
Offer
Messi rejected lucrative Saudi offer before joining MLS
Before his move to Inter Miami, Messi was courted by several clubs, including Al Hilal from Saudi Arabia. As reported by Fox Sports, the Saudi Pro League club proposed a contract that could have seen him earning an impressive €15-20 million per week. This deal would have potentially amassed a staggering €1 billion for Messi in just one season.
Decision
Messi's reasons for rejecting Saudi offer
In a conversation with Time Magazine, Messi confirmed that he had received such lucrative but chose not to accept them. He stated, "I was thinking a lot about going to the Saudi league. I know the country and they have created a very powerful competition that can become an important league in the near future." Despite his role as Saudi Arabia's tourism ambassador and his appreciation for its growing football scene, Messi ultimately decided against this move.
Recovery
Messi's current status and future plans
Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and star player for Inter Miami and Argentina, is on the road to recovery from an ankle injury. The injury has kept him out of action since the Copa America final. Despite his ankle being 'fine,' Inter Miami are not rushing to reintegrate him into their line-up. As reported earlier, Messi will not take part in Argentina's impending FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.