A notable voice from the world of football, former Barcelona player Igor Korneev, recently offered a bold projection about Lionel Messi’s future. He suggested that the Barcelona icon could extend his career in a Saudi club, potentially earning a seasonal salary of 500 million euros. The comments surfaced amid growing speculation about Messi’s next move after his time with Paris Saint-Germain and a broader wave of interest in top players from the Gulf region. The talk underscores how elite players are increasingly courted by clubs in Saudi Arabia and how the economics of modern football are reshaping careers and decisions for players at Messi’s level.
The conversation around Messi follows a familiar pattern seen in recent years when contract figures for star players become part of the public discourse. Earlier, discussions about Cristiano Ronaldo joining Al-Nasr drew astonishment as reports highlighted a yearly compensation around 200 million euros. Observers noted that such figures could be eclipsed as the market evolves, and the possibility of players moving to leagues outside traditional power centers is no longer surprising. Analysts emphasized that the lure of high salaries is matched by the appeal of competitive leagues, global exposure, and new cultural experiences that attract seasoned stars to different corners of the world.
Messi’s career path has already crossed multiple major European stages. In August 2021, the Argentine icon moved from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain after long years in the Spanish league, a period that helped define an era for both the player and the club. His contract with PSG ran until mid-2023, marking another chapter in a career characterized by adaptability and continued impact on the field. The broader narrative involves how a player might weigh a return to familiar surroundings against fresh challenges in other leagues, all while maintaining peak performance and brand value on a global stage.
Reports from European outlets have periodically cited interest from teams such as Al-Hilal, which was reported to be exploring a substantial two-season package valued at hundreds of millions of euros. Separate discussions have hinted at possibilities ranging from a return to Barcelona to a move within Major League Soccer, including clubs like Inter Miami, reflecting the diversified options available to a player of Messi’s stature. Such scenarios illustrate how strategic decisions are influenced by financial considerations, competitive aspirations, and the potential for expanding a player’s legacy beyond their peak prime years.
Jorge Messi, the player’s father, has consistently been part of the dialogue surrounding his son’s professional trajectory. In these conversations, attention often centers on how Messi might continue his journey at the highest level while balancing personal, family, and professional priorities. The ongoing dialogue about Messi’s future—whether on the European stage, in the Middle East, or on a fresh MLS chapter—highlights the enduring appeal of a player who has redefined what is possible at the forwards position. The evolving landscape of football salaries, incentives, and opportunities continues to captivate fans and pundits alike as they anticipate the next destination for one of the sport’s most influential figures.