Messi Tops List Of Highest-Paid MLS Players

As per the latest data released by the Major League Soccer (MLS) Players Association, Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi is the league's highest-paid player with total annual compensation of $20,446,667. It is also worth mentioning that Messi’s salary is more than the payroll of 21 MLS teams.

The figure covers Messi's MLS deal, which runs through the 2025 season and includes any marketing bonuses and agent’s fees. It excludes any additional team or affiliate agreements and performance bonuses. MLS players' average guaranteed compensation has risen to $649,120, a 9.2% increase from $594,389 in May 2024, according to the latest annual salary release.

Meanwhile, Inter Miami recorded a $46.8 million payroll as of May 23, an increase from $41.7 million last season. Toronto winger Lorenzo Insigne is second on the highest-paid player list with $15.4 million in total compensation, followed by Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets ($8,774,996) and Atlanta winger Miguel Almirón ($7,871,000). The number of MLS players earning $5 million or more has risen to 11 (from 9 last season). Similarly, 50 players now earn $2 million or higher, compared to 44 previously.