Lionel Messi and his move to Inter Miami last summer sent shockwaves through the soccer world. The Argentine maestro, widely expected to chase another European adventure or succumb to the lure of Saudi Arabia’s riches, opted for MLS instead. While Saudi Arabia made headlines with high-profile acquisitions of European talent, Messi’s preference for the American soccer landscape sparked intense speculation. What prompted the soccer icon to snub the lucrative Saudi Pro League deal? The answer lies in an exclusive revelation from the Saudi soccer director.

The 8x-Ballon d’Or winner snubbed a staggering $1.6 billion offer from Al-Hilal in the summer. Messi’s desire for something beyond obscene wealth played a pivotal role in his decision, as he wanted to bring his loyal friends to the Gulf kingdom.

Saudi Soccer Federation director reveals interesting reason behind Messi’s rejection!

In a candid interview, Abdullah Hamad, CEO of Mahd Academy and director of the Saudi Soccer Federation, disclosed Messi’s desire to bring his close friends along. It played a pivotal role in his decision-making process. The Argentine maestro, known for his close-knit and loyal circle, envisioned sharing this new journey with his trusted companions. However, the lack of a final agreement between Al-Hilal and Lionel Messi ultimately led to the Argentine’s redirection to the MLS.

“I am acquainted with Messi’s father, and we were in negotiations with him and are still with the academy, and we have nothing to do with his negotiations for a Saudi club,” Abdullah Hamad stated. This revelation sheds light on Messi’s motivations. For a player who has achieved everything imaginable on the pitch, personal happiness and the comfort of his close ones seem to have trumped the lure of astronomical wealth.

Lionel Messi thought of joining Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League

While the allure of a $1.6 billion deal from Al-Hilal was undoubtedly enticing, Lionel Messi took a moment to think. During an interview with TIME Magazine, the famous Argentine athlete disclosed that he carefully considered his choices before deciding to join the MLS. The 36-year-old acknowledged considering the prospect of joining the Saudi Pro League.

After becoming a free agent in the summer, Messi found himself at a crossroads. Although a return to Barcelona was on his radar, the failure to materialize the move forced him to explore other options. “I was thinking a lot about going to the Saudi league. I know the country, and they have created a very powerful competition that can become an important league soon. It was Saudi Arabia or MLS, and both options seemed very interesting to me,” Messi revealed to TIME Magazine.

READ MORE: “He Complained.. He Confronted Me” – Difference Between Cristiano Ronaldo & Lionel Messi’s Attitude Revealed by Saudi League Referee

Messi’s decision to prioritize his friends over financial gain sends a powerful message to the world of professional sports. It’ll be interesting to see what lies ahead for the global soccer icon in his path. Fans will be waiting to see Messi return to action on the pitch.

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