The prospect of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi rekindling their legendary rivalry in Major League Soccer is being talked up, even as Ronaldo approaches a world-record extension with Al-Nassr that would see him remain in Saudi Arabia until 2026.
What’s the buzz?
Lionel Messi, now settled at Inter Miami in the MLS, could face his eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo once again, according to ex-Germany international Dietmar Hamann. While Ronaldo is reportedly set to extend his lucrative Al-Nassr contract, Hamann believes a move to the United States could be a perfect swan song for the Portuguese superstar.
Speaking to BestOffshoreSportsBooks.org, Hamann said:
“Cristiano Ronaldo’s powers are coming to an end. A move back to Europe might not be the best idea. A move to America would make sense, but he’d have to do what Lionel Messi has done and impress on the pitch to be a megastar there. It could be a great story.”
The state of the legends
- Cristiano Ronaldo, now 38, has redefined his career in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, amassing goals and silverware. Reports suggest that Ronaldo is nearing an agreement to extend his stay until 2026, aligning with the next FIFA World Cup in North America.
- Lionel Messi, at 36, has already left an indelible mark on the MLS, helping Inter Miami secure the Leagues Cup and elevating the league’s global profile. His contract includes a 12-month extension option, keeping him tied to Miami potentially through 2026.
Both icons remain active on the international stage, ensuring their legendary careers are far from over.
Why an MLS reunion makes sense
Hamann and other football analysts see MLS as the ideal stage for Ronaldo to extend his career while reigniting the magic of his rivalry with Messi.
- American fan culture: MLS fans value star power and entertainment, creating an environment where Ronaldo’s charisma and global brand could thrive, even if his peak playing days are behind him.
- Legacy battles: Ronaldo and Messi meeting on American soil would be an unforgettable chapter in their storied rivalry, offering one last chance to settle the debate over who is the greatest of all time.
The challenges of a reunion
While the idea excites fans, logistical hurdles remain:
- Al-Nassr commitment: Ronaldo’s reported extension with Al-Nassr would likely prevent any MLS move until after 2026, at which point he would be 41 years old.
- Messi’s future: Though Messi has a contract extension option with Inter Miami, it’s unclear whether he’ll remain in the MLS beyond 2025.
- Timing: A reunion depends on both legends being willing—and physically able—to compete at a high level.
A rivalry for the ages
Since their first meeting in 2008, Messi and Ronaldo have shared one of the greatest rivalries in sports history. Their battles in El Clasico, their record-breaking Ballon d’Or hauls (13 combined), and their respective dominance in European football have defined an era.
While their paths diverged in 2023, the idea of a final showdown in the MLS continues to capture the imagination of football fans worldwide.
What’s next?
For now, Ronaldo seems poised to extend his Middle Eastern chapter, while Messi continues to thrive in Miami. Whether or not they meet again on the pitch, their rivalry remains etched in football folklore—a testament to two careers that have transcended the sport.