Anmar Al-Haili, the former president of Al-Ittihad, confirmed that Lionel Messi rejected a phenomenal offer from the Saudi League in the summer of 2023, preferring a move to the United States.
Upon his departure from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, Saudi League officials attempted to lure the Argentine international to the competition, reigniting his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Although it was publicly stated at the time that Al-Hilal was the club that tried to sign Messi, Anmar Al-Haili asserts that Al-Ittihad was actually Messi’s preferred destination, and indeed, an incredible offer was presented to him to finalize the deal.
The former president of the Jeddah-based club said, “Yes, I contacted Messi previously when his contract with Paris ended, and I offered him $1.4 billion annually to join Al-Ittihad.”
Messi rejected the lucrative offer at the time because his family preferred to move to the United States. Of course, we respect Messi’s wishes, and Al-Ittihad’s doors will always be open to him. He can come whenever he wants.
It’s worth noting that Messi moved to Inter Miami at that time, and he has been playing for the club, owned by David Beckham, ever since. He led them to the MLS Cup title and renewed his contract until the end of 2027, making a move to the Roshan League virtually impossible.
