Lionel Messi is now the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer history.
That’s according to the MLS Player Association salary guide, a list that details the exact wages of every player in the league.
The updated list shows the earnings of players under contract as of September 15, 2023.
Messi is set to earn around $20.5 million in guaranteed compensation this year, that’s not including performance bonuses or brand deals.
Speaking with Spanish paper El Pais in June, Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas stated that Messi’s full salary could reach the heights of, at least, $50 to 60 million a year.
Messi officially signed for the club on July 15th, causing shockwaves around world football. Since then, the 36-year-old has had a seismic effect on the club, leading them to their first trophy in club history and making them a recognizable brand around the world.
Though the Herons didn’t make the playoffs, there is plenty of buzz around the team as they look forward to 2024.
Messi is worth the money
Messi is worth every penny that Inter Miami is paying him.
The Argentine has been integral in making the team a current, and future MLS powerhouse.
His presence on the field for the Herons made them a difficult team to beat on their way to winning the Leagues Cup. Unfortunately, the club couldn’t carry that good form into the latter half of the season and failed to make the playoffs.
Although the post-season was just out of grasp, there’s plenty the South Florida club should look forward to heading into next year.
For one, they’ll have a full off-season of Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The trio will be able to rest and recover properly before they head into pre-season in January.
Additionally, during pre-season, head coach Tata Martino will be able to cater his tactics to the weapons he has at his disposal. Messi may have fallen short of helping the Herons to the playoffs, but if the salary Miami’s paying him is any indication, it’s safe to say the club will certainly get their money’s worth next year.