Reports linking Cristiano Ronaldo with a sensational move to Inter Miami, where he would reunite with long-time rival Lionel Messi, have been confirmed as a hoax originating from Spain.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claimed that Ronaldo had instructed his agents to offer his services to Inter Miami in order to finish his career alongside Messi. However, the story, published on 28 December, was later revealed to be a prank tied to DÃa de los Santos Inocentes—Spain’s equivalent of April Fool’s Day.
What the Fake Report Claimed:
The article alleged that Ronaldo was willing to accept a significant pay cut from his current Al-Nassr salary, reportedly exceeding £3 million per week, to facilitate the move.
It also included several clearly exaggerated and humorous justifications, such as:
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A dermatologist preferring Miami’s climate
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A potential Hollywood film role
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Sharing free-kicks and penalties while benefiting from Messi’s assists
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His friendship with Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham
The Clue That Gave It Away
The biggest giveaway came from the article’s byline — Ricardo Tubbs, a fictional character from the TV series Miami Vice. This confirmed that the piece was a deliberate prank rather than a genuine transfer report.
Retirement Talk From Both Superstars
Both Messi and Ronaldo are approaching the latter stages of their illustrious careers.
In November, Ronaldo admitted that retirement is coming soon, describing it as a difficult step but one he has prepared for over several years.
Meanwhile, Messi previously suggested that he may not feature at the 2026 World Cup, citing age and the need to take his career “day by day.” Despite that, the Argentine superstar recently signed a new contract with Inter Miami through the end of the 2028 MLS season, signalling that he has no immediate plans to stop playing.
Current Focus Remains on the Pitch
Messi is currently enjoying his off-season after guiding Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup triumph. Ronaldo, meanwhile, remains focused on club duties, with Al-Nassr topping the Saudi Pro League table and preparing to face Al-Ittifaq on Tuesday evening as he looks to end the year strongly.
Verdict
While the idea of Ronaldo and Messi playing together in Major League Soccer captured global attention, the story was nothing more than a festive Spanish prank. For now, the legendary rivals remain on separate paths, continuing to write the final chapters of their remarkable careers.
Posted by: Noqib Hasan Bhuiyan
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