Lionel Messi remains the highest-paid player in MLS with a total annual compensation of $20,446,667, surpassing the payroll of 21 MLS teams.
The average guaranteed compensation for MLS players is $649,120, up 9.2% from May 2024.
Inter Miami leads the league with a record $46.8 million payroll, double that of most other teams.
Toronto FC winger Lorenzo Insigne is the second-highest earner at $15.4 million.
Eleven players earn $5 million or more, and 131 players earn $1 million or more.
The latest salary release by the MLSPA reveals significant financial disparities within MLS. Messi’s earnings underscore his value, but also highlight the growing investment in talent across the league. Inter Miami’s high payroll reflects their ambition, while the increasing average player compensation indicates a broader trend of financial growth in MLS.
The designated player rule allows teams to bring in star players, but it also creates imbalances in squad balance. For instance, Messi’s salary accounts for a significant portion of Inter Miami’s total expenditure. Other notable high earners include Lorenzo Insigne, Sergio Busquets, and Miguel Almirón.
Several new faces have joined MLS with substantial wages, including Miguel Almirón (Atlanta United) and Hirving Lozano (San Diego FC). These acquisitions reflect the league’s increasing attractiveness to international talent.
Q: How much does Lionel Messi earn in MLS?
Lionel Messi earns $20,446,667 annually in MLS.
Q: What is the average player salary in MLS?
The average guaranteed compensation for MLS players is $649,120.
Q: Which team has the highest payroll in MLS?
Inter Miami has the highest payroll at $46.8 million.
Lionel Messi’s high salary reflects his significant impact on MLS.
MLS is experiencing overall financial growth, with increasing player salaries and team expenditures.
Financial disparities exist among teams, with a few top spenders and many others with much lower payrolls.
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