Messi Unlikely to Join Saudi League Amid Ronaldo, Benzema

Ramon Planes, the sporting director of Al-Ittihad and a former executive at FC Barcelona, has offered his perspective on the ongoing speculation about Lionel Messi's potential move to the Saudi Pro League. According to Planes, Messi is unlikely to join Saudi football in the near future, citing the current prominence of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema within the league.

Planes remarked, 'The Saudi Pro League already boasts significant stars like Ronaldo and Benzema. While Messi's addition would be a milestone, his career path appears to align more with the Major League Soccer (MLS) project in the United States.' This comment reflects recent developments, as Messi has been strongly linked with a move to Inter Miami, where he would embark on a new chapter in American soccer.

The Saudi Pro League, however, continues its ambitious push to attract global talent. Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr earlier this year, and Benzema signed with Al-Ittihad, making headlines worldwide. Their arrival has elevated the league's profile, drawing international attention and increasing its competitiveness.

Planes also highlighted Benzema's contributions to Al-Ittihad, emphasizing his professionalism and determination to adapt to a growing project. The club has invested heavily in strengthening the squad, bringing in notable players such as Rajković, Danilo, Diaby, and Bergwijn to support their ambitions.

While Messi's move to Saudi Arabia would undoubtedly be groundbreaking, Planes believes the timing and circumstances are not aligned. 'Messi's career appears set on a different trajectory,' he added, pointing to the allure of MLS and its growing reputation as a competitive and dynamic league.

As the global football community speculates about Messi's next steps, the Saudi Pro League remains focused on its vision of becoming a premier destination for top-tier talent. Whether Messi will ever don the colors of a Saudi club remains a question for the future.