In a bombshell that’s set the soccer world ablaze, reports claim Cristiano Ronaldo has instructed his agents to pitch him to Inter Miami, aiming to end his illustrious career alongside longtime rival Lionel Messi.
The 41-year-old Portuguese icon, currently at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, is reportedly disillusioned with life in the Middle East and open to a massive pay cut for an MLS reunion that could shatter records and redefine rivalries.
As of February 10, 2026, this remains unconfirmed speculation, but sources like Fichajes and Football365 suggest Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham is “hopeful” of making it happen this summer. If true, Ronaldo and Messi —arch-rivals for over 15 years—teaming up at Chase Stadium would be the ultimate plot twist in soccer history.
The Rumor Breakdown of Cristiano Ronaldo to Inter Miami: Why Now and What’s Behind It?
Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr stint has been a mixed bag. Since joining in January 2023 on a reported $200 million annual salary, he’s smashed 68 goals in 75 games, but off-field frustrations mount. Recent reports highlight “uncertainty” in Saudi Arabia, from low attendance (camel races allegedly drawing bigger crowds) to Ronaldo’s growing discontent amid a players’ strike threat.
With his contract expiring in June 2027, CR7 is said to be eyeing an early exit, willing to slash his wages to join Messi in Miami—potentially hitting his 1,000th career goal with a Messi assist.
Inter Miami, transformed by Messi’s 2023 arrival (leading to a Leagues Cup win and Supporters’ Shield), sees Ronaldo as the final piece for global dominance. Beckham, a former Ronaldo teammate at Manchester United, dreams of this “galactico” pairing to boost MLS viewership and ticket sales.
Still, skepticism is high. Similar rumors popped up in 2024 but were dismissed as pranks, like Mundo Deportivo’s December 28 “April Fool’s” piece. Critics say Ronaldo’s ego could clash with Messi’s style of play, and at 41, his ability to keep up with MLS’s demands is doubtful. Even so, sources like Legit.ng report he’s ready to leave and open to the move.
Potential Impact: MLS Revolution or PR Stunt?
If Ronaldo signs, Inter Miami could field a dream attack: Messi (35 assists in MLS), Ronaldo (900+ career goals), and stars like Luis Suárez. It’d skyrocket jersey sales, attendance (already 25,000+ per game), and global TV rights—echoing Messi’s arrival, which boosted Apple TV subscriptions by 300%. For Ronaldo, it’s a chance to chase MLS records and bow out in style, perhaps targeting a 2026 World Cup farewell.
But challenges loom: MLS salary caps (Ronaldo’s $200M vs Miami’s $5M cap) require exemptions, and Al-Nassr’s reluctance to release him amid a fallout. Beckham’s “ambitious plan” hinges on negotiations, per MARCA.