Messi’s move to Saudi Arabian league could create a new era of football rivalry with Ronaldo

Dubai News

The future of Lionel Messi in football is a hot topic of discussion right now. There are a lot of rumours about his potential destination after his contract with Paris Saint Germain (PSG) ends in June. While Messi has been linked with all the big clubs in Europe, including Barcelona, there are three possible destinations for the Argentinian superstar.

PSG is eager to keep Messi, but he has a big decision to make as his next club could well be his last. While he is already a millionaire, the lure of a big-money move might be too strong to resist. But should he sign for a club that will allow him to excel on the pitch, challenge for titles, and realistically allow him to add to his collection of Ballon d’Or wins? It is a decision that he has to make.

The first possible destination for Messi is a return to Barcelona. He scored 672 goals in 778 matches for them and lifted 35 trophies during his spell at the club. The Spanish giants were forced to let him go due to financial issues that plagued the club, but they would welcome their hero back with open arms, despite their financial problems. They would happily make sacrifices in their squad to make room for his return, and he would probably even accept a hefty pay cut to make it happen. Ever since he left, they just have not been the same.

The second possible destination is a move to Manchester City to rejoin his former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola. City has deep pockets and could easily afford him, even though the club is under investigation for Financial Fair Play breaches. He could forge an incredible partnership with Erling Haaland – City fans would be desperate to see them both in attack.

The third and most lucrative destination is a move to Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal. Cristiano Ronaldo took the bold step to play in the Middle East when he signed a mega-money deal with Al Nassr, and Messi could follow suit and play in the Saudi Pro League. Al Hilal would be willing to break the bank to sign him, reportedly offering a staggering £245 million-a-year deal, which would dwarf Ronaldo’s £177 million per year pay contract with Al Nassr. Saudi Arabia is bidding to host the 2030 World Cup, and getting Messi on board as an ambassador is something the country would dearly love.

For years, Messi and Ronaldo battled it out to be crowned the best player on the planet when they played for Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively. They could be set to renew football’s greatest rivalry once again in front of a brand new audience. It is an exciting prospect, but ultimately it will come down to Messi’s decision on where he wants to continue his footballing journey.