Messi Inter Miami Salary: When Lionel Messi announced his move to Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, the global soccer community immediately began speculating about the financial details of the transfer.
Messi, a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, will switch from Paris Saint-Germain to the Sunshine State, turning down several other lucrative offers from Middle Eastern clubs and even his former team, FC Barcelona.
Now, let’s delve into the specifics of Messi’s much-anticipated contract with Inter Miami, notably funded by tech giant Apple and sportswear manufacturer Adidas.
Also, we’ll explore how Messi’s earnings will measure up against those of his age-old competitor, Cristiano Ronaldo.
What are the details of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami deal?
Messi’s deal with Inter Miami extends for two and a half years, with a possible one-year extension for 2026. The complex agreement, partly financed by Apple and Adidas, includes a base salary plus bonuses. Messi’s overall deal is estimated to range from $125 million to $150 million.
Apart from these earnings, Messi could also receive an ownership stake, similar to what David Beckham received upon his arrival in the league.
How will Messi fit into Inter Miami’s Designated Player scheme?
The Designated Player Rule was initially implemented by MLS in 2007 to attract Beckham from European soccer. Each team in MLS can have three players who aren’t subject to the league’s standard salary cap.
Messi, as expected, will occupy one of these spots in Inter Miami. However, before the Argentine World Cup winner’s arrival, the team must adjust as their three spots are occupied by Josef Martinez, Rodolfo Pizarro, and Gregore.
Comparing Messi’s earnings with Cristiano Ronaldo’s at Al-Nassr
Despite becoming MLS’s highest earner, Messi’s annual salary will still need to catch up to his rival Cristiano Ronaldo’s mammoth contract with Saudi Arabian team Al-Nassr, inked in January 2023. Ronaldo pulls in around $221 million annually, with $77 million in basic salary and the rest from image rights and commercial deals.
Ronaldo might also net an extra £177m for contributing to Saudi Arabia’s 2030 World Cup bid.
Who was the highest earner in MLS before Messi?
Messi’s transfer instantly makes him the highest-paid player in MLS, far exceeding the league’s current top earners. Before Messi’s arrival, the highest MLS salary belonged to Xherdan Shaqiri of Chicago Fire, who earns slightly over $8.1 million annually.
Following closely are Toronto FC’s Lorenzo Insigne at $7.5 million and LA Galaxy’s Javier Hernandez with $7.4 million.
Messi’s Inter Miami contract means that the former Liverpool winger (Shaqiri) will no longer be the highest earner in MLS.
Read about the MLS Players Salary Guide
How much did David Beckham earn with LA Galaxy?
Beckham’s move to LA Galaxy in 2007 significantly impacted American soccer. He signed a five-year deal worth $32.5 million and a revenue share agreement that earned him an additional $255 million.
Post-retirement, Beckham bought an MLS franchise (Inter Miami) for $25 million, a team now valued at over $580 million.
Final Thoughts
Messi Inter Miami Salary: As Messi embarks on his latest soccer journey with Inter Miami, he continues to set new records – this time, in Major League Soccer. His groundbreaking salary agreement highlights MLS’s growing financial power and allure, proving it can attract some of the most extraordinary talents in soccer history.
With Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami will receive an unparalleled boost, and the entire American soccer scene is set to benefit, potentially witnessing an uptick in viewership and fan engagement.
Messi’s MLS contract may seem less lucrative than Cristiano Ronaldo’s staggering earnings with Al-Nassr. However, it’s important to remember that Messi’s decision to move to MLS could be driven by factors beyond the paycheck – the lifestyle, market potential, and perhaps even the charm of American soccer.
As we gear up to witness the Argentine maestro’s magic on American soil, one thing is sure: Messi’s Inter Miami adventure will be one for the history books.