Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. At 38 years old and preparing for what could be his final World Cup across Canada, Mexico, and the USA, Messi earns an astonishing salary, reportedly around $70 to $80 million annually when bonuses and equity stakes are included. Inter Miami’s owner, Jorge Mas, recently confirmed this figure to ESPN, illustrating the significant financial commitment the club has made to secure his talent.
Details of Messi’s Contract and Salary Breakdown
Messi’s base salary with Inter Miami is $12 million, but his guaranteed compensation reaches approximately $20.45 million. His contract, initially signed upon joining the team in 2023, was extended last summer, binding him to the club until the end of 2028. This contract structure includes additional bonuses and equity options, which push his total annual earnings to the $70-80 million range, underscoring his value at the club.
Impact on Inter Miami’s Success and Growth
Since Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami has achieved remarkable success, winning the Leagues Cup, securing the MLS Supporters’ Shield with a record points total, reaching the U.S. Open Cup final, claiming the MLS Cup, and advancing to the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Messi’s influence extends beyond achievements on the field—his presence attracted former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets, enhancing the team’s tactical play and making Miami one of the league’s most exciting attacking sides.
The Club’s Enhanced Status and Financial Value
The combination of on-field success and star power has increased Inter Miami’s prominence and market value, now estimated at $1.45 billion, the highest in MLS. Jorge Mas emphasized the expensive nature of top-tier players like Messi, explaining the need for world-class sponsors to support the club’s financial model. He stated,
“The reason that I need to have sponsors and for them to be world-class is because players are expensive. I pay Messi — worth every penny — but it’s $70 million to $80 million a year. Across everything,”
as reported by ESPN.
Reflecting on Messi’s Influence and Compensation
Messi’s remuneration might surprise some, yet it reflects his extraordinary impact on Inter Miami’s performance and reputation. While some may argue that extracting such a player from the European scene warrants even more lavish compensation, the current package underlines how MLS franchises are willing to invest heavily to raise their competitive and commercial profiles. Messi’s tenure will likely continue to influence the league’s growth and global appeal in the years ahead.
