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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Sport
Karim Zidan

Lionel Messi chose to play in MLS. But he’s still Saudi Arabia’s $25m pitch man

Lionel Messi Saudi Arabia Inter Miami United States Miami Saudi Tourism Authority
Lionel Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo visit Saudi Arabia during a publicity trip to promote the kingdom
Lionel Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo visit Saudi Arabia during a publicity trip to promote the kingdom. Photograph: Saudi Tourism Authority/AFP/Getty Images

Since touching down on American soil a few weeks ago, Lionel Messi – the undisputed maestro of the beautiful game – has already orchestrated a symphony of spectacular goals. From a scintillating stoppage time winner in his Inter Miami debut to his two first-half goals in his second game, the 36-year-old is already leaving his mark on US soccer.

Yet as Messi Mania sweeps across the US, another country stands on the sidelines, eagerly watching the fruits of the Argentinian’s continued triumphs: Saudi Arabia.

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