The Kings League: Expanding Horizons in Football Entertainment

The Kings League, launched by World Cup champion Gerard Piqué, has experienced considerable success, cultivating a global fan base and expanding its brand. The recent World Cup of Nations in Brazil, which saw the host nation and Chile reach the finals, has further elevated the competition’s profile.

Significant growth in audience numbers is attracting prominent names to the event. Neymar has participated, alongside fellow Brazilian Kaka, and discussions about possibly featuring Lionel Messi in the future have emerged.

In a podcast interview in Brazil, Neymar revealed that Messi has shown an interest in playing in the Kings League. He mentioned, “He wrote to me and asked if he could come. I told him I’d check if the booth was full. Messi might come,” suggesting the possibility of Messi appearing in the semi-finals or finals.

Although Messi did not join for the Cup of Nations final, Piqué addressed speculation about the involvement of former teammates, stating, “Ask Ney, he was the one who threw it, wasn’t he?” He expressed his hope: “We’ll see if one day there is the possibility that he gets involved in the Kings League. For me, it would be a dream, obviously, because we like to have the best, and I’ve always said it, he is the best in the history of this sport. Having him with us would be incredible.”

Piqué has made it clear that he aspires to attract more renowned players to the Kings League. “I have been fortunate to play with the best in the world. There will always be the opportunity for them to participate. When you are playing, it is more complicated, but when you finish your career, it is another story,” he remarked.

He previously noted the potential of extending an invitation to Messi, who is currently playing for MLS Cup champions Inter Miami under a contract running through 2028. Piqué emphasized, “We’re trying to attract all the great legends from the world of traditional football. And Messi is the greatest of them all. When he retires, we might have the chance to invite him.”

Sergio Aguero, former Manchester City and Barcelona striker and chairman of one of the Kings League franchises, echoed Piqué’s sentiments about Messi. “We haven’t spoken about it. I think it’s a little complicated at the moment with the schedule, but I hope one day he can play for us. Many stars have played and more want to come,” he stated, mentioning notable players, including Chicharito, Ronaldinho, Pirlo, Shevchenko, and Casillas.

“There are many ex-players interested in playing. It’s just a matter of finding the right dates,” Aguero added.

Piqué also highlighted the success of the seven-a-side Kings League, noting its unique rules that resemble video game mechanics, like a ‘double goal’ card and ‘reverse penalties’. He remarked, “We knew that Brazil was a country that could work very well for Kings. Seven-a-side football is popular, and there is significant social media engagement. We are a product designed to represent real football while also being akin to a video game.”