Inter Miami star Lionel Messi remains the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer MLS for the second consecutive year, according to figures released by the MLS Players Association.
The 38-year-old Argentine legend earns a total guaranteed compensation of 20.45 million, placing him comfortably ahead of every other player in the league. However, this figure only reflects a portion of Messi's full earnings, which are significantly boosted by endorsement deals - notably with Adidas - and a revenue-sharing agreement with Apple, the league's broadcast partner.
According to Sportico, Messi could earn up to 150 million over the course of his two-and-a-half-year contract with Inter Miami and MLS, which began in the summer of 2023.
Trailing behind Messi is Toronto FC forward Lorenzo Insigne, with guaranteed earnings of 15.44 million, while Sergio Busquets, Messi's teammate at Inter Miami, comes in third with 8.5 million.
Rounding out the top five are Atlanta United's Miguel Almiron, earning 7.87 million, and San Diego FC's Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, with 7.63 million.