The prospect of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi rekindling their legendary rivalry in Major League Soccer is being discussed, even as Ronaldo nears a world-record contract extension with Al-Nassr that would see him stay in Saudi Arabia until 2026.
What is the excitement?
Lionel Messi, now based at Inter Miami in MLS, could face his eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo again, according to former German international Dietmar Hamann. With Ronaldo expected to extend his lucrative contract with Al-Nassr, Hamann believes a move to the United States could be a perfect swan song for the Portuguese superstar.
By speaking to BestOffshoreSportsBooks.orgHamann said:
“Cristiano Ronaldo’s powers are coming to an end. A return to Europe might not be the best idea. A move to America would make sense, but he would have to do what Lionel Messi did and impress on the pitch to become a megastar there. This could be a great story.”
State of Legends
- Cristiano Ronaldonow 38, has redefined his career in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, accumulating goals and trophies. Reports suggest Ronaldo is close to a deal to extend his stay until 2026, in alignment with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in North America.
- Lionel Messiat 36, has already left an indelible mark on MLS, helping Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup and raising the league’s global profile. His contract includes a 12-month extension option, potentially tying him to Miami until 2026.
Both icons remain active on the international stage, ensuring that their legendary careers are far from over.
Why an MLS meeting makes sense
Hamann and other soccer analysts view MLS as the ideal stage for Ronaldo to extend his career while rekindling the magic of his rivalry with Messi.
-- American fan culture : MLS fans appreciate star power and entertainment, creating an environment where Ronaldo’s charisma and global brand could thrive, even if his best playing years are behind him.
- Legendary Battles : Ronaldo and Messi’s meeting on American soil would be an unforgettable chapter in their legendary rivalry, offering one last chance to settle the debate over who is the greatest of all time.
The challenges of a meeting
Although the idea excites fans, logistical hurdles remain:
- Engagement with Al-Nassr : Ronaldo’s contract extension with Al-Nassr would likely prevent any transfer to MLS before 2026, when he would be 41 years old.
- Future of Messi : Although Messi has a contract extension option with Inter Miami, it is unclear whether he will remain in MLS beyond 2025.
- Timing : A reunion depends on the willingness—and physical ability—of the two legends 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 sporting history. Their clashes in The Classictheir record-breaking Ballon d’Or wins (13 in total) and their respective dominance in European football defined an era.
Although their paths have diverged in 2023, the idea of a final MLS clash continues to capture the imagination of soccer fans around the world.
What’s next?
For now, Ronaldo looks set to extend his chapter in the Middle East, while Messi continues to thrive in Miami. Whether they meet again on the field or not, their rivalry remains etched in football folklore—a testament to two careers that transcended the sport.
