Let's talk about Lionel Messi's paycheck, because it's absolutely wild. The Inter Miami superstar is pulling in between $70 million and $80 million every single year. That's not a typo.
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas just confirmed the jaw-dropping figure to Bloomberg. He says it includes everything - Messi's base salary, ownership shares in the club, endorsements, and more. "I pay Messi -- worth every penny -- but it's $70 million to $80 million a year," Mas explained.
To put this in perspective, Messi's official MLS base salary is $12 million per season. His guaranteed compensation sits at about $20.5 million according to the players association. So where's the rest coming from?
The 38-year-old Argentine legend has a pretty sweet deal. He gets tens of millions more from endorsements and a special revenue-sharing arrangement with Apple, which broadcasts MLS matches. Smart business, right?
Why Inter Miami Needs Deep Pockets
Mas was discussing the club's finances while talking about their new stadium naming deal with Brazilian company Nu. Nu Stadium will seat 26,700 fans near Miami International Airport and host its first match on April 4.
"The reason that I need to have sponsors and for them to be world-class is because players are expensive," Mas said. Translation: Messi doesn't come cheap, and they need serious money coming in.
Has Messi Been Worth It?
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has transformed the club. The team won the Leagues Cup, the Supporters' Shield, and the MLS Cup. They've also qualified for the Champions League and the Club World Cup.
"Leo changes everything for the better," said Xavier Asensi, Inter Miami's president of business operations. The results on the pitch speak for themselves - record points, multiple finals, and trophies stacking up.
Messi signed a contract extension last fall that keeps him at Inter Miami through 2028. For bettors, this is massive news. Inter Miami will likely remain favorites in most MLS matchups as long as Messi's on the field. His presence alone shifts odds and makes the team a serious contender in every competition they enter.
Bottom line? Messi is in a league of his own - literally and financially. No other MLS player comes close to his earnings or his impact on the game.
