What’s Next for Lionel Messi After Leaving PSG: Saudi Arabia, Barcelona, or Miami?

Saudi Arabia: magot and Ronaldo?

Reuniting Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the same championship has something to seduce … In any case the Saudis. The oil kingdom dreams of this duo as a showcase for the promotion of a probable candidacy for the organization of a World Cup. A crazy challenge, but commensurate with the financial power of the Gulf State, which has already brought the Portuguese to Al-Nassr thanks to a golden bridge.

Already under contract with the Saudi tourist office, Messi could follow, several media evoking a fabulous offer from the Al-Hilal club valued at 400 million euros per year. According to the Spanish newspaper Sport, an announcement could be made as early as Tuesday. There remains the sporting aspect, not the least: will the seven-time Ballon d’Or isolate himself in this weak championship one year from the Copa America 2024, which could be his last international event?

Barcelona: class and nostalgia?

Returning to Barcelona would have a completely different flavor for the “Pulga”, who would find his former teammate Xavi there, now a coach. Far more romantic, of course, than Saudi greed. It would be a great story but the operation is complex for a Barça under budgetary pressure. The club is said to be still awaiting validation by the Spanish league of its “viability plan”, which includes the extensions of several key players as well as the potential return of Messi.

In order not to exceed the salary cap, Barca have to reduce their spending by another 200 million euros. Messi close in hearts, yet so far away.

Miami: family and living environment?

This hypothesis comes up less frequently but it does exist: Inter Miami, in Florida, in a North American championship which has always eyed South American stars at the end of their careers like Pelé, Kaka, Gonzalo Higuain or currently Douglas Costa.

The option has the advantage of bringing the family closer to Argentina, to Miami, where the Messis already have a base. In this ideal living environment, the star would find another football star: David Beckham, one of the co-owners of the Florida franchise.

Although less famous than its European cousins, the MLS is also a championship of a level much higher than the Saudi one. An ideal compromise for Messi, who turns 36 on June 24? The next few days will tell.

(AFP)