Lionel Messi has more than doubled his Major League Soccer base salary in his renegotiated contract with Inter Miami, now earning $25 million annually, according to figures released by the MLS Players Association. That base figure, combined with guaranteed compensation from his contract, pushes his total package to approximately $28 million, making him the highest-paid player in the league by a wide margin. Messi’s total compensation is now more than double that of any other MLS player, underscoring his status as the league’s marquee attraction since arriving last summer.
The Argentine World Cup winner’s previous deal carried a base salary of roughly $12 million, meaning his new terms reflect a significant raise that aligns with his on-field and commercial impact. Inter Miami, which struggled before Messi’s arrival, has since become one of MLS's most valuable franchises and captured the Leagues Cup title in 2023. The salary figure does not include potential endorsement bonuses or revenue-sharing agreements tied to Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass, which were part of his initial agreement with the league.
While Messi’s earnings dwarf those of other MLS stars, the gap highlights the league’s willingness to invest in global icons to drive growth. For context, the second-highest earner in MLS trails Messi’s total compensation by tens of millions, a reminder that no other player in the league commands his combination of pedigree, ticket sales, and streaming subscriptions. As Inter Miami prepares for a full season with their captain, the financial commitment signals that the club and league are betting heavily on Messi’s continued presence to elevate the sport’s profile in North America.