Lionel Messi is currently the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer, earning an annual salary of $20.445 million with Inter Miami. This compensation surpasses the next highest-paid player, Lorenzo Insigne, by more than 25%, and nearly triples the paycheck of teammate Sergio Busquets, who joined from Barcelona. Messi’s earnings alone account for 43% of Inter Miami’s total player wages.
According to data shared by the MLS Players Association through ESPN, Messi’s salary exceeds the combined wage bills of 21 out of 30 MLS teams. Among the few clubs with higher total payrolls than what Inter Miami pays Messi individually are Toronto FC, Atlanta United, FC Cincinnati, LA Galaxy, LAFC, Chicago Fire, Nashville SC, and New York Red Bulls.
Club Owner Expresses Desire for Messi to Stay Long-Term
Jorge Mas, the owner of Inter Miami, has publicly expressed his hope that Lionel Messi will conclude his career with the club. With Messi’s current contract set to expire at the end of the season, negotiations for an extension are underway. Mas has previously stated his dream of Messi inaugurating Inter Miami’s new stadium next March and has shown optimism about finalizing the deal soon.
“I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the number 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March. This is a decision that rests on Messi. We wish for Messi to finish his career here. I said a few months ago that we should have news in the summer about that but hopefully it will be as soon as possible.”
—Jorge Mas, Inter Miami Owner
“But I am optimistic because we have done everything possible for Leo to feel at home, to feel comfortable. I always said that he is a competitive animal, he wants to win. I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we’re just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi.”
—Jorge Mas, Inter Miami Owner
Impact of Messi’s Arrival on Inter Miami’s Success
Since Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami, the club has achieved historic milestones, winning their first major trophy with the 2023 Leagues Cup shortly after his debut. Furthermore, in his first full season, Inter Miami secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield, highlighting the significant influence Messi has had on the team’s performance and aspirations.
With contract talks ongoing, Messi’s potential continuation at Inter Miami could shape the club’s future ambitions, both on and off the pitch, as supporters and management alike anticipate further successes and the possible unveiling of their new stadium with their star player at the center.