LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Lionel Messi’s earnings at Inter Miami have surpassed the combined payroll of 25 MLS clubs, unveiling the impressive financial package associated with the Argentine superstar’s move to the United States.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner made a sensational transfer to Inter Miami over the summer, becoming a free agent after his tenure at Paris Saint-Germain.
David Beckham, the legendary figure from Manchester United and England who is now a co-owner of Inter Miami, played a pivotal role in facilitating this deal after a decade of behind-the-scenes efforts.
Messi has immediately left his mark in America, helping Inter Miami achieve a historic Leagues Cup victory and concluding the 2023 season with 11 goals in 14 appearances.
His presence at MLS and domestic cup matches has drawn A-list spectators, and ticket prices soar whenever he steps onto the field.
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While Messi contributes significantly to generating revenue, he is also handsomely rewarded financially.
The 2023 MLS player salary guide has disclosed that the legendary player earns a base salary of $12 million (£10 million) and a guaranteed compensation exceeding $20 million (£16 million), making him the highest-paid player in the league.
Additionally, he reportedly rakes in between $50 million (£41 million) and $60 million (£49 million) from deals with MLS and Apple TV.
In total, the 36-year-old is believed to be earning approximately $135 million (£110 million), a sum that dwarfs the combined payroll of rival MLS teams.
Currently, only four MLS teams—Inter Miami, Toronto FC, LA Galaxy, and LAFC—boast total payrolls larger than Messi’s individual earnings.
The World Cup winner has emphasized that his move to the United States was not motivated by money, despite receiving lucrative offers from the Middle East.
Upon his arrival in Florida, he stated, “My decision went through many things; we thought about it with my wife, my children were also part of the decision, the family in general.
“I just came to play and enjoy football, which is what I’ve liked all my life. I chose [Miami] for that, above all else, and I’m very happy with the decision we made.”
