Messi's criticism of the Saudi Arabian league that will infuriate Cristiano

Lionel Messi is not only admired for what he has done on the field throughout his professional career, but also for his behavior off it. Despite being one of the most famous people in the world for almost 20 years, he has almost never been in the news for controversial phrases or arguments with coaches, teammates or rival players.

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One of the few exceptions was that memorable moment after the quarter-final match of the Qatar 2022 World Cup in which he argued with the Netherland's Louis Van Gaal and Wout Weghorst. So when details of controversial situations involving Leo become known, they instantly flood the newspapers, TV shows and social media. And that is exactly what happened in this case.

Journalist Roberto Antolin revealed on Mitre Live that Lionel Messi had a chat with his Argentina National Team teammate Rodrigo De Paul about the Saudi Arabian Pro League. Apparently, the Atlético Madrid midfielder received an offer from Al-Ittihad, a team managed by Argentine coach Marcelo Gallardo, and asked Leo for advice on what to do.

The Inter Miami forward's response was blunt. Antolin said: "Messi told him 'you make the decision you want, but if you accept this you say goodbye to the Argentine national team'. That's because the level there is very low". In addition, the journalist added that another of the reasons listed by Lionel was that life in Saudi Arabia would affect De Paul's relationship with his girlfriend, singer and actress Tini Stoessel.

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What will CR7 think?

Cristiano Ronaldo will undoubtedly not be happy to hear Lionel Messi's opinion on the Pro League. The Portuguese striker has been one of the biggest supporters of soccer in Saudi Arabia since his arrival at Al-Nassr in December 2022, in exchange for a salary higher than $200 million per year. In fact, he said in an interview some time ago: "The Saudi league is better than MLS. I paved the way and now all the players come here."