Lionel Messi has cemented his status as the financial and competitive epicenter of Major League Soccer (MLS) after new figures revealed a significant hike in his compensation. According to the latest data released by the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) on Tuesday, the Inter Miami and Argentina star now commands an annual base salary of $25 million. This figure is more than double the earnings of the league`s second-highest-paid player, South Korean standout Son Heung-min.
The union`s report reflects the contract extension Messi signed with the Florida-based franchise in October, which ensures he remains with Inter Miami through the end of the 2028 campaign. Under the new terms, Messi’s total guaranteed compensation has reached a record-breaking $28.3 million. It is important to note that these figures do not account for external revenue streams, such as lucrative endorsement deals with global brands, nor do they include his future equity stake in the club co-owned by David Beckham.
Son Heung-min, who transitioned to Los Angeles FC from Tottenham Hotspur last August, occupies the second spot on the list. Despite a record transfer fee of $26 million, Son’s base salary is reported at $10.36 million, with total guaranteed compensation amounting to $11.2 million. The gap between Messi and the rest of the league is further emphasized by the fact that Messi`s individual pay exceeds the entire payroll of nearly every other team in the competition.
Inter Miami’s financial commitment to building a powerhouse is evident in their staggering $54.6 million total payroll, which is over $20 million higher than their nearest competitor, LAFC. In contrast, the Philadelphia Union operates with a league-low payroll of just $11.7 million. Overall, total league compensation has climbed to $631 million, marking an 8.9 percent increase since last October, reflecting the broader commercial growth of the league following Messi’s arrival in 2023.
At 38, Messi shows no signs of slowing down on the pitch. Expected to captain Argentina in their World Cup title defense starting next month, he comes off a stellar season where he led the league with 29 goals and secured his second consecutive Most Valuable Player award. With 59 goals in 64 regular-season appearances for Miami, Messi continues to prove that his record-breaking salary is matched by record-breaking performances, driving both the club`s success and the global profile of American soccer.
