Lionel Messi is now pulling in a staggering $28.3 million annually in Major League Soccer, a figure that eclipses every other player in the league by a vast margin. This compensation package, confirmed by the MLS Players Association's latest salary release, means the Inter Miami star earns more than twice the amount of the league's second-highest earner, Son Heung-min of LAFC, who makes just over $11 million. Messi's income alone exceeds the entire payrolls of 28 of the 29 other MLS teams, highlighting a significant disparity in player remuneration within the domestic professional soccer landscape.
Messi's contract includes his base MLS salary, marketing bonuses, and agent fees. It does not, however, account for any supplementary agreements with Inter Miami or its affiliated entities, nor does it include potential performance-based bonuses. This substantial financial commitment underscores Messi's market value and the league's investment in its marquee talent. His on-field contributions align with his lucrative deal, having netted 59 goals in 64 regular-season games for Miami, including nine goals in eleven matches this current season. Last year, he led the league with 29 goals and secured his second consecutive MVP award.
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Financial Chasm in MLS
The release of MLS salary information reveals a tiered structure of earnings, with a distinct gap between the top echelon and the rest of the league. Beyond Messi and Son, other prominent names featured include Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul, earning around $9.7 million, and San Diego FC's Hirving Lozano, with earnings just north of $9 million. This concentration of high salaries within a few teams, particularly Inter Miami, points to strategic roster building focused on acquiring established international stars. Inter Miami, for instance, dedicates approximately 76.7% of its total wage bill to its three highest earners.
Other notable figures on the earnings list include:
Miguel Almiron (Atlanta United): Around $7.9 million
Emil Forsberg (New York Red Bulls): Approximately $6 million
Sam Surridge (Nashville SC): Close to $5.9 million
Riqui Puig (LA Galaxy): Roughly $5.8 million
Jonathan Bamba (Chicago Fire): Around $5.6 million
Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC): Just over $5.4 million
Interestingly, the salary data also shows players on high compensation packages who are not participating this season due to injury, such as Riqui Puig.
League Structure and Player Remuneration
The MLS Players Association's annual release provides a granular view of player salaries, offering insight into how teams construct their squads and manage their financial resources. This data allows for an examination of how league-wide compensation is distributed and the economic impact of major signings. While Messi's earnings are exceptional, the league continues to see significant investments in other global talents, attracting attention and bolstering the league's profile.
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