Al-Ittihad’s Ambitious Offer: Messi Could Name His Price for a Saudi Dream Contract

In a statement that has captured international attention, Anmar Al Haili, the president of Saudi Arabian football club Al-Ittihad, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing Lionel Messi to the Saudi Pro League. Al Haili revealed he would offer Messi a unique contract—one in which the Argentine superstar could set his own terms, from salary to contract length, potentially even a lifetime deal. According to Al Haili, if Messi were to join Al-Ittihad, financial considerations would become insignificant in light of the legendary player’s presence on their team.

The Dream of Bringing Messi to Al-Ittihad

This ambitious offer underscores the growing influence of Saudi clubs in global football and the country’s ongoing efforts to attract top talent to its league. Al-Ittihad’s president explained his rationale, suggesting that having Messi on the squad would be tantamount to securing championship success before the season even begins. Al Haili praised Messi as the best player in football history and seemed confident that Messi’s presence would immediately elevate the team’s status.

A Staggering €1.4 Billion Offer Previously Rejected

Al Haili also provided insight into the club’s earlier bid for Messi following the expiration of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Reportedly, Al-Ittihad offered Messi a staggering €1.4 billion deal, marking one of the largest offers in football history. However, Messi declined the proposal, opting instead for a move to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), prioritizing his family’s desire for a lifestyle based in the United States. This decision emphasized Messi’s commitment to his family, even over an unprecedented financial offer.

Messi’s Choice: Family Over Wealth

Messi’s decision to decline such a lucrative contract in favor of family stability and a quieter life in Miami has resonated with fans and analysts alike. In the world of elite football, where players often chase the biggest contracts, Messi’s choice highlighted his values and loyalty to his family’s happiness. This has only added to his reputation as one of football’s most grounded and thoughtful stars, demonstrating that not even a record-breaking contract can sway him from his priorities.

The Saudi League’s Growing Influence

The Saudi Pro League has been actively seeking to increase its global prominence, and part of this strategy has involved attracting top-tier players from Europe and other major leagues. Players like Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr, and Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad have already signed with Saudi clubs, demonstrating the league’s success in enticing big names. However, signing Messi would represent the league’s most prestigious acquisition to date, marking a turning point in Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a central player on the global football stage.

Financial Backing and Long-Term Vision

The Saudi Pro League’s pursuit of Messi aligns with the country’s broader strategy to establish itself as a powerhouse in international sports, underpinned by substantial financial backing. With massive investments in sports infrastructure and player contracts, Saudi Arabia is determined to make its league more competitive and attractive for international audiences. Messi’s potential arrival would likely bolster this strategy, bringing unprecedented global attention to the league.

The Impact of Messi’s Potential Move on Al-Ittihad

If Messi were to accept Al Haili’s offer, the implications for Al-Ittihad would be monumental. His presence would not only elevate the team’s on-field performance but also attract fans and sponsors worldwide. Ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and merchandising would likely surge, making Messi’s potential contract a worthwhile investment for Al-Ittihad, despite the high cost.

A Boost to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Goals

Messi’s signing would also align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the nation’s economy by investing in various sectors, including sports. Securing a global superstar like Messi would enhance Saudi Arabia’s image and position it as a significant player in the global sports industry, driving tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.

The MLS Journey: Messi’s Impact in Miami

Messi’s move to Inter Miami in the MLS has already proven impactful, sparking unprecedented levels of attention and excitement for American soccer. His influence in the league has been both immediate and transformative, raising viewership numbers and creating a buzz around MLS games. However, the possibility of a move to Saudi Arabia could allow Messi to bring a similar transformation to the Saudi Pro League, enhancing its visibility and appeal.

Messi’s Legacy and the Allure of New Challenges

For Messi, the decision to move to Saudi Arabia could present a unique opportunity to leave an even more profound mark on global football. As he reaches the later stages of his career, the chance to make history in a different region and help shape a developing league might be an intriguing proposition. This, combined with the unparalleled financial offer, may lead Messi to reconsider joining Al-Ittihad in the future.

Conclusion: A Decision That Could Reshape Football

The prospect of Messi joining Al-Ittihad remains speculative, but the Saudi club’s approach highlights the changing landscape of international football. Should Messi ever accept Al-Ittihad’s offer, it would be a seismic shift in the sport’s history, blending one of its greatest players with a league determined to redefine itself. Al Haili’s statement signals the ambition of Saudi football and the growing appeal of the league for global superstars, with Messi as its most coveted prize.