Messi Rejected €1.4 Billion Saudi Offer, Al Ittihad President Reveals

Lionel Messi Rejected Staggering €1.4 Billion Offer from Saudi Club Al Ittihad

In a stunning revelation, Al Ittihad president Anmar Al Haili has disclosed that Lionel Messi turned down a monumental offer worth approximately €1.4 billion from the Saudi Pro League club before signing for Inter Miami in MLS. This decision highlights Messi’s prioritization of family and his long-term sporting project over an unprecedented financial windfall.

The "Blank Cheque" Offer That Was Declined

Al Haili confirmed that the offer was presented in 2023 when Messi was a free agent after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. The proposal would have shattered all existing football salary records. "I offered him €1.4 billion," Al Haili stated. "He rejected such a significant offer for the sake of his family."

The president emphasized that Al Ittihad’s door remains open, even offering Messi a future "blank cheque"—where the Argentine could set his own salary and contract length, potentially even a lifetime deal. Yet, Messi's choice was clear.

Why Messi Chose Inter Miami

Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023 was influenced by multiple factors beyond finances:

• Family and Lifestyle: Stability and well-being for his family in Miami were paramount.

• Sporting Project: A commitment to growing the game and building a legacy in Major League Soccer, a rapidly developing market.

• On-Field Success: Since joining, Messi has helped Inter Miami win trophies like the MLS Cup and Leagues Cup, elevating the club's global profile.

In October 2025, Messi reinforced this commitment by extending his contract with Inter Miami through 2028, effectively ending speculation about a move to Saudi Arabia or Europe.

Context: Saudi Arabia's Aggressive Football Ambitions

Messi’s rejection comes amid Saudi Arabia's aggressive recruitment of global football superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema to boost the Saudi Pro League. Securing Messi would have been the ultimate coup for this strategy, underscoring the vast financial resources Saudi clubs are willing to deploy.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia Discovers 7.8 Million Ounces of Gold Across Four Major Sites

Messi’s Legacy: More Than Money

This revelation adds a defining chapter to Messi’s career, illustrating that legacy, family, and personal fulfillment can outweigh even the largest financial offers. As he continues with Inter Miami and eyes the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Messi's choices reflect a balanced approach to the final stages of his legendary career, captivating fans worldwide with his priorities both on and off the pitch.