Lionel Messi’s New Chapter at Inter Miami
Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has marked a significant turning point in his illustrious career. The 2022 World Cup winner is now on a quest to become a champion in the United States, a feat that would add another layer to his already legendary status in the world of football. His move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has not only captivated fans but also sparked a new era for the league itself.
A Stellar Start: Winning the Leagues Cup
Messi’s debut with Inter Miami was nothing short of spectacular. He quickly made his presence felt on the pitch, leading the club to its first-ever trophy in the 2023 Leagues Cup. His ability to change the dynamics of a game was evident as he showcased his unparalleled skills and vision. However, the excitement was tempered by challenges; injuries and fatigue began to take their toll on the 36-year-old forward, causing him to miss crucial matches. As a result, Inter Miami fell short of qualifying for the postseason, a disappointment for both Messi and the club.
Resilience and a Strong Start in 2024
Despite the setbacks, Messi’s brilliance remained undeniable. As the 2024 season kicked off, he helped Inter Miami achieve a strong start, demonstrating his commitment to the team. Even during his mid-season injury absence, the club continued to thrive, ultimately claiming the Supporters’ Shield and entering the playoffs as favorites for the championship. This resilience speaks volumes about Messi’s impact on the team and the potential for future success.
The Financial Implications of Signing Messi
Securing a player of Messi’s caliber comes with a hefty price tag. According to figures released in May 2024 by sources like The Athletic and The New York Times, Messi’s salary surpasses the guaranteed compensation totals of 25 different MLS teams. The annual release of Major League Soccer compensation information revealed that Messi’s base salary is set at $12 million, with total guaranteed compensation exceeding $20.4 million. This makes him the highest-paid player in MLS by a significant margin, dwarfing the earnings of his closest competitors.
Messi’s Contract Details
Messi signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Inter Miami in 2023, which runs through the end of the 2025 season, with an option to extend for an additional year. The financial details of his contract are staggering. The 2024 MLS salary guide indicates that Messi’s base salary is $12 million, while his total guaranteed compensation is just over $20.4 million. For context, the next highest-paid player in the league, Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto FC, earns a base salary of $7.5 million and total guaranteed compensation of $15.4 million. The disparity is striking, with Messi’s teammate Sergio Busquets and Xherdan Shaqiri trailing behind at $8.8 million and $8.15 million, respectively.
Inter Miami’s Financial Landscape
Unsurprisingly, Inter Miami leads the league in team wage spending, with a total guaranteed compensation of $30.9 million. In contrast, the Montreal Impact sits at the bottom of the spending chart with just $10.8 million. Messi’s financial impact on the club extends beyond his salary; reports suggest he received an ownership stake as part of his contract, along with ongoing negotiations for advertising and image rights with major brands like Apple and Adidas. Estimates indicate that the total value of Messi’s deal could range from $125 million to $150 million, translating to approximately $4.1 million to $5 million per month.
Messi’s Place Among Football’s Elite Salaries
While Messi’s contract represents a significant drop from his previous wages at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), he still ranks among the highest earners in football. Comparatively, his earnings are dwarfed by those of players moving to Saudi Arabia, where lucrative contracts are becoming increasingly common. According to Forbes, Messi ranks third among the highest-paid athletes of 2024, with total earnings estimated at $135 million, while Cristiano Ronaldo leads the pack with $260 million.
The Top Earning Footballers of May 2024
As of May 2024, the list of top-earning footballers reflects the changing landscape of the sport:
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr): Estimated Annual Salary – $200 million; Estimated Total Income – $260 million
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): Estimated Annual Salary – $20.4 million; Estimated Total Income – $135 million
- Kylian Mbappe (PSG): Estimated Annual Salary – $90 million; Estimated Total Income – $110 million
- Neymar (Al Hilal): Estimated Annual Salary – $80 million; Estimated Total Income – $108 million
- Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad): Estimated Annual Salary – $100 million; Estimated Total Income – $106 million
Messi’s journey at Inter Miami is not just about the numbers; it’s about the legacy he continues to build and the excitement he brings to American soccer. As he aims for championship glory in the U.S., fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this chapter unfolds.