Why did Messi and Ronaldo left European football

to pursue less competitive leagues?

they beat the game and are in new game+

Money

they are doing side quests

both about to retire so money needed for retirement

If they stayed in top leagues and then retired they would end their career with bad seasons . Imagine ronaldo stayed in man u and scored single digit goals then retired.... better to go to saudi have good season + more money

For money and sponsorships

messi did not want to return to Barca if that meant other players were getting kicked out + only wanted barca.
-> Barca HAD to get rid of players whether the players wanted out or not due to salary cap (LA LIGA rules)

Ronaldo kinda messed his rep from his actions during his last year in United + there werent many interests.
-> Bayern rumours = They didnt even have that much money to spend on 1 player.
-> Chelsea rumours = Tuchel said NO to boehly (Chelsea's owner) wanting ronaldo.
-> United wanted him gone.