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, as the 2022 World Cup winner embarks on a quest to secure a championship title in the United States for the first time. After a storied tenure at Barcelona and a successful stint at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Messi’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has not only captured the attention of fans but also reshaped the landscape of American soccer.
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 by clinching the 2023 Leagues Cup. His ability to influence games and create scoring opportunities showcased his enduring brilliance, even at the age of 36. However, the rigors of the season took their toll, as injuries and fatigue sidelined him during crucial matches, contributing to Inter Miami’s failure to qualify for the postseason.
Resilience and a Strong 2024 Season
Despite the setbacks, Messi’s impact on the team remained undeniable. As the 2024 season unfolded, Inter Miami experienced a strong start, with Messi playing a pivotal role in their success. Even during his mid-season injury absence, the team continued to thrive, ultimately claiming the Supporters’ Shield and entering the playoffs as favorites for the championship. This resilience highlighted the depth of talent within the squad and Messi’s ability to inspire his teammates.
The Financial Implications of Signing Messi
Securing a player of Messi’s caliber comes with significant financial implications. Reports from May 2024 revealed that Messi’s salary surpasses the total guaranteed compensation of 25 different MLS teams. According to the 2024 MLS salary guide, Messi’s base salary is set at $12 million, with total guaranteed compensation exceeding $20.4 million. This staggering figure makes him the highest-paid player in MLS by a considerable margin, dwarfing the earnings of his closest competitors.
Comparing Salaries in MLS
The next highest-paid player in the league is Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto FC, whose base salary of $7.5 million and guaranteed compensation of $15.4 million pale in comparison to Messi’s earnings. The disparity is further highlighted by the fact that only a handful of players, including Messi’s teammate Sergio Busquets ($8.8 million) and Xherdan Shaqiri of Chicago Fire ($8.15 million), come close to reaching the $9 million mark in guaranteed compensation.
Inter Miami’s Financial Dominance
Inter Miami has emerged as the frontrunner in team spending, with a total guaranteed compensation pay of $30.9 million. This figure starkly contrasts with the lowest-spending team, Montreal, which stands at $10.8 million. Messi’s presence has undoubtedly elevated the club’s profile and financial standing within the league.
Ownership Stake and Additional Earnings
In addition to his impressive salary, Messi reportedly received an ownership stake in Inter Miami as part of his contract. Ongoing discussions regarding advertising and image rights with major brands like Apple and Adidas further enhance the financial allure of his move. Estimates suggest that when factoring in all aspects of his deal, Messi’s contract could be worth between $125 million and $150 million, translating to approximately $4.1 million to $5 million per month.
Messi’s Position Among the Highest-Paid Athletes
Despite a significant reduction from his PSG wages, Messi remains one of the highest-paid athletes globally. According to Forbes, he ranks third on the list of the world’s highest-paid athletes for 2024, with total earnings estimated at $135 million. His annual salary of $20.4 million places him behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who leads the list with earnings of $260 million, primarily due to his lucrative contract with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
The Evolving Landscape of Soccer Salaries
Messi’s contract illustrates the evolving landscape of soccer salaries, particularly in the context of players moving to leagues outside of Europe. While his earnings in MLS are substantial, they are considerably lower than those of players heading to Saudi Arabia, where financial incentives have skyrocketed in recent years. As more stars join the ranks of Cristiano Ronaldo and others in the Middle East, Messi’s ranking among the highest earners may continue to shift.
In summary, Lionel Messi’s journey at Inter Miami is not just about his on-field performances; it also encapsulates the financial dynamics of modern soccer. His influence on the pitch, coupled with his significant salary and ownership stake, underscores the transformative impact he has had on the club and the league as a whole. As he continues to chase glory in the United States, Messi’s legacy only grows richer, adding another chapter to his already legendary career.