A recirculated interview featuring Al-Ettihad president Anmar Al-Haili has gained renewed attention, shedding light on the Saudi club’s ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful pursuit of Lionel Messi following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.
Speaking candidly, Al-Haili revealed that he personally contacted Messi after his PSG contract expired and presented one of the most lucrative offers in football history. According to the Al-Ettihad president, the proposal was worth a staggering €1.4 billion overall, including an annual salary of €88 million. Despite the unprecedented figures, Messi declined without entering negotiations, opting instead for a move to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
“If Messi ever decided to sign for Al-Ettihad, I would hand him a blank check,” Al-Haili said. “He could write any amount he wants and choose the length of the contract—even if it were for life. Having Messi in Saudi Arabia wearing Al-Ettihad’s jersey would be priceless. With the greatest player in football history, we would be celebrating the league before the season even begins.”
Al-Haili explained that Messi’s decision was driven by family considerations, with the Argentine prioritizing life in the United States. “I fully respect that choice,” he added. “The door at Al-Ettihad will always remain open for him whenever he wants to come.”
The comments have reignited debate across the Saudi Pro League, particularly amid Al-Nassr’s ongoing title struggles despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s impressive goal-scoring form. Fans and pundits have been quick to engage in playful comparisons, contrasting what might have been had Messi joined the Saudi project.
Meanwhile, Messi continues to thrive in the United States. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has flourished with Inter Miami, winning MLS MVP honors and recently extending his contract through 2028—further cementing his legacy in American soccer.
As Saudi clubs continue to attract global superstars and MLS enjoys Messi’s star power, Al-Haili’s remarks serve as a reminder of how close the football world came to witnessing one of the most dramatic transfers in history.
