“It could be a great story”

Former Germany international Dietmar Hamann has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to renew his rivalry with Lionel Messi by moving to MLS. The Portuguese superstar is currently based in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, but his contract expires at the end of this season.

Recent reports suggest that the 39-year-old is ready to sign a blockbuster deal with the Saudi Pro League side. However, he has also recently been linked with a move to the MLS.

In conversation with BestOffshoreSportsBooks.orgAs quoted by GOAL, Hamann insisted that Cristiano Ronaldo can strike the right chord with US soccer fans.

“We have seen that Cristiano Ronaldo’s energies are running out, he is nearing the end of his career, so a move back to Europe may not be the best idea,” Hamann said.

He continued:

“I think a move to America would make sense, but he would have to do what Lionel Messi did and impress on the pitch if he wants to be a megastar out there. He may not be able to do that in Europe, but in America he loves to be entertained, no matter the sport, this could be a great story.”

Interestingly, Lionel Messi’s contract with Inter Miami also expires at the end of this season. However, with the 2026 World Cup scheduled to take place on the other side of the Atlantic, La Pulga is expected to continue its stay at Chase Stadium.

When did Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo end their stay in Europe?

Cristiano Ronaldo ended his stay in Europe in December 2022 and parted ways with Manchester United. The Portuguese’s second spell at Old Trafford did not live up to expectations as the player fell out of favor under former coach Erik ten Hag.

CR7 criticized the Dutch coach in a controversial interview, forcing the Red Devils to terminate his contract. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner then moved to the Middle East to join Al-Nassr. Since then, he has scored 75 goals and assisted 18 more in 84 games for the Saudi club.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi’s European chapter ended in the summer of 2023 when he left Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as a free agent. La Pulga later moved to Inter Miami and has since won two trophies with the Herons. He has 34 goals and 18 assists in 39 games for the Florida-based club.