Archive · 23 May 2025
Messi Tops MLS Pay: Salaries and League Growth in 2025
Lionel Messi is the highest-paid player in MLS, making over $20 million in 2025.
This includes his salary, marketing deals, and agent fees.
Riqui Puig is also among the top earners.
The league is attracting more international stars with big salaries, making it more competitive.
Messi's presence and the financial investments reflect the changing landscape of US professional sports.
Lionel Messi is the highest-paid MLS player with $20.4 million in 2025.
This salary includes base pay, marketing bonuses, and agent fees.
Riqui Puig earns a guaranteed salary of $4 million in 2025.
Messi's contract with Inter Miami extends to December 2025, with potential for extension.
The MLS is attracting global stars with multi-million dollar contracts.
- Who
- Lionel Messi and other top earners
- What
- Highest-paid MLS players in 2025
- When
- 2025 season
- Where
- Major League Soccer (MLS)
- Why
- To highlight the impact of global soccer stars on the MLS and its growing financial clout.
Context
Benefits
League Competitiveness
Context
The MLS is better able than ever to compete for talent with leagues in Europe and elsewhere in the world.
Benefits
Messi and Puig's presence improves the standard of football.
- Highest-Paid MLS Player (2025)
- Lionel Messi ($20.4 million)
- Salary of Riqui Puig (2025)
- Riqui Puig ($4 million)
- Estimated Annual Earnings of Lionel Messi (total)
- $60 million (soccer), $75 million (endorsements)
- Messi's Contract End Date
- December 2025
