Saudi Arabia declined an offer to sign Lionel Messi for a short-term stint in the Saudi Pro League before next year's World Cup, according to a senior sports official.

Messi's teammate, Sergio Busquets, is third in the league with over $8.8 million in compensation. The 2010 World Cup winner will retire at the end of this season. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s new Miami teammate, has a $1.5 million salary and $3,619,320 in total compensation.

Former India player Parthiv Patel has noted that Rohit Sharma would be keen to end his wait for an ODI World Cup Trophy in 2027.

Beyond November, Argentina already has friendly matches lined up against Mexico and Honduras in the United States. These games will serve as the official send-off before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, allowing Lionel Scaloni to fine-tune tactics and finalize the squad that will represent the country in Qatar.

The two GOATs, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, are joined by Balon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Barcelona star Lamine Yamal on the FIFPRO World 11 short list.