A decision that shook football
In 2023, the soccer world was rocked by the news that Lionel Messi was leaving the European continent to join Inter Miami of the Major League Soccer (MLS). This decision surprised many, but what few knew was that the Argentine star had received an unprecedented offer from Al-Hilal, one of the most influential clubs in Saudi Arabia.
An offer that made history
Al-Hilal presented a proposal of 1.4 billion euros, becoming the largest in the history of the sport. Anmar Al Haili, the club’s president, confirmed that the offer included not only a spectacular salary, but also incentives and business opportunities that would have catapulted Messi’s income to unimaginable levels.
The possibility of a reunion with Neymar
One of the additional attractions of the offer was the possibility of playing again alongside Neymar, a former Barcelona teammate. In addition, fans would have been able to enjoy the spectacle of seeing Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo compete in the same league, a combination that would have been a gift for football lovers.
Prioritizing Family Over Money
Despite the magnitude of the offer, Messi chose to reject it. According to Al Haili, the decision was motivated by Messi’s desire to ensure the well-being of his family. ‘His family wanted to settle in America’, the president pointed out, stressing that, for Messi, family ties weighed more than any amount of money.
A New Beginning in the United States
Finally, Messi chose to move to Inter Miami, a move that has revitalized American football. Although his MLS contract does not reach the astronomical figures of Al-Hilal, it represents a new chapter in his career, with great potential to expand his influence in an emerging market.
Additional Income and Global Impact
In addition to his MLS salary, Messi continues to generate significant income through advertising deals, including a notable contract to appear in a Super Bowl LVIII commercial, which will net him around $14 million. Thus, despite rejecting a record offer, Messi remains one of the highest paid and most influential athletes on the planet.
Values that Transcend Sport
Messi’s decision not only marked a change in his career path, but also sent a powerful message about his priorities. For him, family stability and happiness are values that cannot be quantified with money, thus showing that personal life and family relationships are priceless.
