Lionel Messi tipped to follow 'phoenix' Neymar's example by returning to boyhood club after MLS stint with Inter Miami - but ex-Premier League star expects Cristiano Ronaldo to retire in Saudi Arabia

Neymar has returned to Brazil to play for boyhood club Santos after a dismal time in Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal. The forward is trying to regain form and fitness at Santos after an injury-ravaged spell in the Middle East and has just been named in Brazil's squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. Santos president Marcelo Teixeiro has already admitted he's hopeful Neymar will stay with the club until after the 2026 World Cup.

Messi is now being tipped to follow Neymar's example and head back to his homeland for one final stint before hanging up his boots. Former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit thinks Messi could be tempted back to Argentina, where he began his career with Newell's Old Boys, but expects another legend of the game, Cristiano Ronaldo, to stay put in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr.

Petit told CasinoAppsThatPayRealMoney.com: "If there is one more move for Lionel Messi it would be wanting to finish his career in Argentina, look at how well Neymar is doing back in Brazil, he is like a Phoenix from the flames. Having said that, Messi looks very happy in Miami with his team-mates, living in the sun and being the biggest star in the MLS at 37. With Ronaldo, I can’t see him leaving, he is 40 and has a huge contract in Saudi Arabia, it’s not just about money but he is also the star. He’ll be happy to finish his career there."

Messi's current contract at Inter Miami runs through the end of the 2025 MLS season and includes an option for 2026. In the meantime, Inter Miami are back in action on Thursday in the second leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup clash with Cavalier, although it remains to be seen if Messi will play after missing recent fixtures due to fitness concerns.