Riyadh, October 30, 2025 — In a surprising development, reports suggest that Saudi Arabia has turned down an offer from football superstar Lionel Messi to play in the Saudi Pro League (SPL).
According to international sports media, the Argentine legend, currently with Inter Miami, had expressed interest in finishing his career in Saudi Arabia — but officials from the SPL reportedly declined the proposal, citing strategic changes in the league’s player recruitment policy.
The move comes as a surprise to many football fans, especially after Saudi clubs made record-breaking signings of global stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar Jr. in recent years.
“The league is now focusing on developing local talent and achieving long-term sustainability rather than relying solely on marquee signings,” a source familiar with the matter was quoted as saying.
While neither Messi’s camp nor Saudi football authorities have issued an official statement, the reports have sparked widespread discussion online about the future direction of the Saudi Pro League and Messi’s next career move.
Messi, 38, continues to play a leading role for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS) and remains a global ambassador for the sport, including promotional work with Saudi tourism campaigns.
