Lionel Messi’s American Renaissance: Goals, record-breaking feats, and a looming Saudi seduction | OneFootball

Lionel Messi looks reborn in the United States. In the thick of the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, the Argentine maestro is piling up goals and assists as if he’s reinventing the game every time he steps on the pitch. On July 9 against the New England Revolution, Messi bagged a brace — including a bizarre goal born from a defensive meltdown, perfectly showcasing his predator’s instinct to turn chaos into magic.

Averaging 0.86 goals per game and boasting 19 direct goal contributions (12 goals and 7 assists), Messi isn’t just topping MLS shooting charts — he’s pulling Inter Miami firmly into title contender territory. He recently became the fastest player in league history to reach 40 goals, underscoring that MLS hasn’t slowed him down; it’s reignited his competitive fire.

Saudi Pro League eyes Messi: A billion-dollar chess match

While Miami celebrates its Argentine gem’s form and fitness, transfer rumors swirl around South Florida. With his contract ending in December 2025, Messi is reportedly being courted by Saudi giants — especially Al Ahli, who dream of reigniting his historic rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo on Middle Eastern soil. Outlets like L’Équipe and Football-Espana detail a bold Saudi project, backed by astronomical figures and the muscle of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has already reshaped the local sports landscape.

But money alone isn’t the key — at least not for Messi. Back in 2023, he openly admitted he would have chosen Saudi Arabia if cash had been his only motivator. Family dynamics, Miami’s lifestyle, and the chance to shape a new footballing frontier still weigh heavily in his decision. Inter Miami, for its part, is actively trying to keep him, reportedly exploring marquee signings like Rodrigo De Paul to convince Messi with a more competitive squad and a brand-new stadium in 2026.

It’s worth noting: in MLS, money isn’t everything either. Salary caps and roster restrictions keep clubs from spending endlessly, creating an illusion of parity across the league — an intentional design, but one that sometimes complicates the pursuit of global superstars.

Defensive levels: MLS vs. Saudi Pro League

Many question whether MLS “makes life easy” for Messi. The reality is more nuanced, especially when comparing it directly to the Saudi Pro League. While the Saudi league has recently attracted high-profile defenders like Kalidou Koulibaly, MLS offers a more balanced competition overall. Globally, MLS typically ranks between the top 10–15 leagues, whereas the Saudi Pro League fluctuates between 25th and 30th but is rapidly gaining traction by attracting big names.

In theory, top Saudi defenders might pose different physical and tactical challenges. Yet, Messi’s intelligence and ability to exploit space — as showcased so vividly against New England — prove he doesn’t need “soft” settings to shine.

The final act of Messi’s MLS journey?

Lionel Messi receives MOM honors in New England (Inter Miami / X)

Messi’s next decision will be a career-defining finale worthy of his legacy. MLS, with its growing infrastructure and global pull, offers a stage for him to cement his legacy in America, especially as the U.S. hosts the 2026 World Cup. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, promises a blockbuster reunion with Ronaldo, transforming every match into a global spectacle.

Wherever he goes, Messi has already proven he is a story in himself — a chapter beyond the reach of ordinary players. And if his current form is any clue, there are still many goals — and headlines — left in his pen.