Lionel Messi Opens the Door to a Premier League Move—But Only on One Condition
In a stunning revelation, Lionel Messi has admitted that Arsène Wenger once tried to sign him for Arsenal during his early career but he turned down the move at the time. However, in a recent statement, the legendary Argentine has hinted at a possible Premier League transfer, suggesting that he is now open to joining Arsenal—but only under one specific condition.
“Arsène Wenger once wanted me to join back then, but I turned down their proposal. Now, I’m ready to join and help them achieve their dream of winning the Champions League. But that will only happen on one condition,” Messi reportedly said.
With Messi still performing at a high level despite playing in MLS with Inter Miami, fans and pundits alike are eager to know what this “one condition” is and whether Arsenal could finally see Messi in their iconic red and white jersey.
Messi and Arsenal: The Transfer That Never Happened
Messi’s connection to Arsenal is not new. In the early 2000s, while Messi was still in Barcelona’s La Masia academy, Wenger reportedly tried to sign him alongside Cesc Fàbregas and Gerard Piqué.
Fàbregas joined Arsenal in 2003 and became a club legend.
Piqué moved to Manchester United before returning to Barcelona.
Messi stayed at Barcelona and went on to become one of the greatest players in football history.
Had Wenger managed to sign Messi, Arsenal’s history could have been very different—especially in the Champions League, where they famously lost the 2006 final to Barcelona.
Now, years later, Messi’s latest comments suggest that he hasn’t ruled out playing for Arsenal before retiring.
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What Is Messi’s “One Condition” for Joining Arsenal?
While Messi did not specify his condition outright, sources close to the player suggest that his demand is related to Arsenal’s ambition in the Champions League.
Messi’s likely condition for joining Arsenal:
1. Arsenal must prove they can challenge for the Champions League – Messi wants to join a competitive team capable of winning the UCL, not just a club participating in it.
2. A short-term contract with an ambitious sporting project – Messi would prefer a one- or two-year deal with assurances that Arsenal will invest in top players.
3. A reunion with Mikel Arteta? – Arteta, who once played under Pep Guardiola at Barcelona, shares a similar tactical philosophy. Messi might be intrigued by working with a manager who understands Barça’s style of play.
If Arsenal can meet these conditions, a shocking transfer move could actually be on the cards.
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Would Messi Fit Into Arsenal’s Current Squad?
Despite being 37 by next season, Messi still plays at an elite level. His performances for Inter Miami and Argentina prove that he can dominate games even at his age.
Where Would Messi Play?
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal plays a fluid attacking style, often using a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation. Messi could fit in several roles:
Right-winger (RW): Competing with Bukayo Saka for a starting spot.
Attacking midfielder (CAM): Playing centrally behind the striker, linking up with Martin Ødegaard.
False 9: A role he has played before, allowing Arsenal’s attack to revolve around him.
How Messi Could Help Arsenal Win the Champions League
Experience: Having won four UCL titles, Messi knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
Leadership: Arsenal has a young squad—Messi’s presence could be a huge influence in the dressing room.
Match-winning ability: Even in his late 30s, Messi is still one of the best dribblers and playmakers in world football.
With Messi, Arsenal’s chances of finally winning the Champions League would increase significantly.
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Will Arsenal Actually Sign Messi?
While the idea of Messi at Arsenal is exciting, there are several factors that could prevent the move from happening:
1. Financial Concerns
Messi still commands massive wages. Arsenal would need to make a special financial commitment to afford him.
2. Competition From Other Clubs
If Messi wants a Premier League move, clubs like Manchester City or Chelsea could also try to sign him. City, in particular, could offer him a reunion with Pep Guardiola.
3. Messi’s Loyalty to Barcelona
Despite leaving in 2021, Messi has always spoken about his love for Barcelona. If he returns to Europe, a short-term Barca comeback is also possible.
Final Thoughts: Could Messi to Arsenal Really Happen?
While Messi’s comments have fueled speculation, a move to Arsenal is still uncertain. If Arsenal proves they can seriously compete in the Champions League, and if they meet Messi’s contract demands, then a move could shock the football world.
For now, fans can only dream about seeing Messi at the Emirates Stadium, leading Arsenal’s attack and helping them win the one trophy they have never lifted—the UEFA Champions League.
