Lionel Messi said no to Inter Milan in 2012

Lionel Messi could have worn the Inter Milan shirt long before his move to MLS. Massimo Moratti, who was then running the Italian club, says he attempted a spectacular move in 2012 to bring the Argentine star to San Siro. An offer estimated at more than €500 million was reportedly made, but failed to sway the player.

Moratti’s spectacular attempt

At that time, Lionel Messi was already firmly established as the central figure at FC Barcelona. Having arrived in Catalonia at the age of 13, he had built his superstar status with the Blaugrana club.

Moratti says he sent Inter’s vice-president to Barcelona to deliver the proposal and begin negotiations. But the Italian executive claims that Messi did not even want to know the amount. “He turned it down without knowing the value of the offer,” Moratti reportedly explained.

A career that ultimately remained tied to Barça

Messi’s rejection allowed Barcelona to keep their star player for many years. The Argentine then set numerous records and won trophies with the Catalan club, including four Champions League titles and ten La Liga titles.

His time at Barça remains by far the longest period of his career. In 778 official matches, Messi scored 672 goals and provided 303 assists. By staying in Catalonia, Messi continued to build an exceptional legacy with the same club before later experiencing spells at Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Inter

Barcelona

Inter Miami CF