Renowned Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has dismissed reports linking Lionel Messi with a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli.
Messi, who exited the FIFA Club World Cup after a 4-0 defeat to his former team PSG, sees his Inter Miami contract expire on December 31, 2025.
There have been claims that Messi could move to a more competitive league to better prepare for the 2026 World Cup. From Barcelona to Manchester City, many top clubs have been mentioned, but Saudi side Al-Ahli have dominated headlines.
Saudi Arabian teams have long been trying to sign Messi, with Al-Hilal launching the last prominent bid in 2023. The 38-year-old, however, passed on the offer, opting to move to Miami.
Guillem Balague Rubbishes Lionel Messi to Al-Ahli Links
On Monday, French outlet L’Equipe claimed Barcelona legend had entered talks with Asian Champions League winners Al-Ahli. Although financial details have not been revealed, Al-Ahli are reportedly prepared to pay big to bring him to Saudi.
On Tuesday, Guillem Balague reacted to the rumour on X (Twitter), claiming there was no truth to the claims.
He wrote:
“FAKE NEWS
“Inter Miami and Leo Messi continue talking about extending his contract. No contact with Al-Ahli or any Saudi club from Messi’s side.”
FAKE NEWS
Inter Miami and Leo Messi continue talking about extending his contract. No contact with Al-Ahli or any Saudi club from Messi’s side
My (educated) guess? He will sign a new contract with Inter Miami and will play the World Cup 👊🏽 https://t.co/KXCVBGtApq
— Guillem Balague (@GuillemBalague) July 8, 2025
Balague then went on to make an educated guess about Messi’s future, adding:
“My (educated) guess? He will sign a new contract with Inter Miami and will play the World Cup”
Inter Miami Club Sources Dismiss Lionel Messi Exit Rumours
While Lionel Messi’s future has been a constant source of speculation, Inter Miami has maintained a firm stance throughout. Earlier this month, Inter Miami clarified that they were in contact with Messi to get the extension over the line.
Sources at Inter Miami said:
“Leo is under contract until the end of 2025. The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship.
“The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen.”
🚨🇺🇸 EXCL: Inter Miami club sources’ position on Leo Messi’s future.
“Leo is under contract until the end of 2025. The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship”.
“The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen”. pic.twitter.com/DXXg2oru5w
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 30, 2025
Messi has revolutionised football in the United States, teaching Americans how fun it can be. Since his arrival, Inter Miami have emerged as genuine contenders for the biggest honours. In his debut season, Miami won their first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup.
Last season, they were the most dominant team in the MLS regular season and won the Supporters’ Shield. The Herons are aiming to win the big one, the MLS Cup, this season.
Messi, who received support from Zlatan Ibrahimovic after Miami’s Club World Cup exit, has played 64 games for Miami. He has scored 52 goals and provided 25 assists across competitions.
