Lionel Messi’s New Chapter at Inter Miami
Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has ushered in a thrilling new chapter in his storied career. The 2022 World Cup champion, having dazzled fans across Europe, now aims to conquer American soccer, striving to add a championship title in the United States to his illustrious list of accolades.
From the very outset, Messi exploded onto the MLS scene, playing a pivotal role in Inter Miami’s victory in the 2023 Leagues Cup—an achievement that marked the franchise’s first trophy. His skill on the ball, vision, and sheer athleticism captured the imagination of fans and elevated the quality of play in the league. However, as the season progressed, injuries and fatigue became part of the narrative, sidelining the 36-year-old during critical matches. This absence contributed to Inter Miami missing out on the postseason, highlighting the challenges of balancing a demanding schedule at his age.
Nonetheless, Messi’s brilliance has remained unmistakable. As the calendar turned to 2024, he spearheaded a strong start for Inter Miami, helping guide the team to a remarkable run that eventually culminated in securing the Supporters’ Shield. Even during his mid-season injury absence, the franchise continued to build on that momentum, affirming their status as favorites entering the playoffs.
Messi’s Substantial Contract
Securing Lionel Messi’s services was no small feat and certainly came at a premium. By May 2024, it became clear just how significant his financial impact was, as The Athletic and New York Times revealed that Messi’s salary eclipses the total guaranteed compensation of 25 different MLS teams. This staggering figure underscores his status as a global icon and the financial pull he brings to the league.
The specifics of Messi’s contract have been publicly detailed, showcasing a two-and-a-half-year deal that extends through the end of the 2025 season, with an option for an additional year. According to the 2024 MLS salary guide, Messi’s base salary stands at an impressive $12 million, with total guaranteed compensation surpassing $20.4 million. This places him leagues ahead of the second-highest-paid player in MLS, Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto FC, whose earnings do not even approach Messi’s staggering figures.
The financial prowess of Inter Miami is evident, as they lead the league in wage spending with a total guaranteed compensation of $30.9 million. In stark contrast, the team at the bottom of the spending chart, Montreal, reports a mere $10.8 million.
Additionally, reports indicate that Messi’s deal includes an ownership stake in Inter Miami, sweetened further by ongoing negotiations around advertising and image rights with major brands like Apple and Adidas. The overall package is estimated to be worth between $125 and $150 million, translating to approximately $4.1 to $5 million each month.
Messi’s Ranking Among Football’s Elite
Despite a significant reduction from his PSG earnings, Messi’s contract in MLS still secures him a position among the top earners in football worldwide. While Messi remains a formidable figure in North American soccer, the landscape is shifting, particularly with many players moving to lucrative contracts in Saudi Arabia.
Comparative figures reveal that while Messi’s earnings are substantial, they pale in comparison to the eye-watering salaries being offered in the Middle East. As of 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo sits at the top of the earnings hierarchy, with an estimated income of $260 million. Messi ranks third on Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes that year, totaling $135 million, particularly highlighting the transformations in the global sports market.
The Future of Lionel Messi in MLS
For now, Lionel Messi’s influence at Inter Miami is palpable—not only in his contributions on the pitch but also in the way he has galvanized support for soccer in the United States. Fans flock to the stadiums to witness history in the making, eager to see if he can lead his team to an MLS title and further embed his legacy in the sport’s rich tapestry in the United States. His journey promises to be both exciting and pivotal, marking a transformative period for soccer in America.