Talk of Lionel Messi joining Arsenal has sparked bold predictions, with claims that the Argentine legend would instantly make the Gunners Premier League champions.
Although highly unlikely at this stage of his career, a hypothetical move to the Emirates has been touted by talkSPORT host Andy Goldstein, who believes Messi’s influence would be transformative. “If he plays up top for Arsenal, he wins them the Premier League. I genuinely believe that,” Goldstein said. “If you’ve got Messi scoring goals, I think he wins them the title.”
Arsenal, still searching for a prolific No. 9 to complete their squad, have experimented with Kai Havertz in that role, but doubts remain about his suitability. “Kai Havertz isn’t the answer. I know he’s not a natural No. 9. But Messi? He could still do that job,” Goldstein added.
Fellow pundit Jason Cundy weighed in, expressing disappointment over Messi’s 2021 decision to join Paris Saint-Germain instead of testing himself in the Premier League. “When he went to PSG, I was done with that decision. It was boring,” Cundy said. “City were in for him. I believe Chelsea were too. Imagine what it would’ve been like if he came to the Premier League.”
Now 37 and playing for Inter Miami in the MLS, Messi has yet to show any regret about turning down English clubs in the past. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains focused on making an impact in the FIFA Club World Cup and preparing for Argentina’s World Cup title defence in 2026.
While a move to England appears firmly off the cards, the fantasy of Messi in an Arsenal shirt continues to capture imaginations and, in some circles, raises hopes of a title-winning fairytale.
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