Messi’s Revealing Choices: From Near Barcelona Return to Saudi Arabia Consideration

In an exclusive interview with TIME after being named Athlete of the Year for 2023, Lionel Messi opened up about the intriguing options that loomed before him last summer when his contract with PSG concluded. Among the various possibilities, including a potential return to Barcelona, Messi admitted he was close to making a move to the Saudi Pro League.

“My first option was to return to Barca, but it was not possible [financially]. I tried to return, but it did not happen,” Messi shared. Delving into the allure of the Saudi league, Messi acknowledged the country’s powerful competition and expressed interest in being part of its football growth as the tourism ambassador. The interview revealed that, in the end, the decision boiled down to two captivating options: Saudi Arabia and MLS.

Messi explained, “In the end, it was between Saudi Arabia and MLS, both options seemed really interesting to me.” The Saudi Pro League, boasting stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema, presented tempting offers, but ultimately, Messi chose to sign with Inter Miami, the team owned by David Beckham.

The impact was immediate, with Messi scoring 10 goals in seven Leagues Cup games and leading Inter Miami to their first-ever title. This article provides insight into Messi’s contemplative decision-making process and sheds light on the near miss of a Barcelona return in favor of exploring new frontiers in Saudi Arabia and MLS.