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. After a storied tenure at FC Barcelona and a successful stint at Paris Saint-Germain, the 2022 World Cup winner is now on a quest to become a champion in the United States for the first time. His move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has not only generated excitement among fans but has also elevated the profile of soccer in the U.S.
A Stellar Start in the Leagues Cup
Messi’s debut with Inter Miami was nothing short of spectacular. He made an immediate impact, leading the team to its first-ever trophy in the 2023 Leagues Cup. His skill, vision, and leadership on the pitch were instrumental in this achievement, showcasing why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. However, as the season progressed, injuries and fatigue began to take their toll on the 36-year-old superstar. This unfortunate turn of events saw him miss crucial matches, contributing to Inter Miami’s failure to qualify for the postseason.
Resilience and a Strong 2024 Season
Despite the setbacks, Messi’s brilliance has shone through. As the 2024 season unfolded, he helped Inter Miami secure a strong start, even during his mid-season injury absence. The team managed to claim the Supporters’ Shield, entering the playoffs as favorites for glory. This resilience speaks volumes about Messi’s influence on the team and his ability to inspire those around him, even when he is not on the field.
The Financial Impact of Messi’s Contract
Securing a player of Messi’s caliber comes with a hefty price tag. According to figures released in May 2024 by sources such as The Athletic and the New York Times, Messi’s salary at Inter Miami surpasses the guaranteed compensation totals of 25 different MLS teams. His base salary is reported to be $12 million, with total guaranteed compensation exceeding $20.4 million, making him the highest-paid player in MLS by a considerable margin.
Comparative Salaries in MLS
To put Messi’s earnings into perspective, the next highest-paid player in the league is Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto FC, who earns a base salary of $7.5 million and guaranteed compensation of $15.4 million. Following closely are Messi’s teammate Sergio Busquets, with $8.8 million, and Xherdan Shaqiri of Chicago Fire, at $8.15 million. Inter Miami’s total guaranteed compensation pay stands at $30.9 million, far exceeding the lowest team, Montreal, which sits at $10.8 million.
Ownership Stake and Additional Earnings
In addition to his salary, Messi reportedly received an ownership stake in Inter Miami as part of his contract. This unique arrangement, along with ongoing discussions regarding advertising and image rights with major brands like Apple and Adidas, significantly enhances the financial value of his deal. Estimates suggest that when factoring in all aspects beyond just his salary, 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 taking a pay cut from his previous earnings at PSG, 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 in 2024, with total earnings estimated at $135 million. In comparison, Cristiano Ronaldo leads the pack with earnings of $260 million, while Kylian Mbappe follows Messi with $110 million.
The Future of Messi in MLS
As Messi continues to adapt to life in the MLS, his presence is expected to have a lasting impact on soccer in the United States. His journey with Inter Miami is not just about personal accolades but also about elevating the sport’s profile in a country where soccer is rapidly gaining popularity. With the playoffs on the horizon, fans are eager to see if Messi can lead Inter Miami to its first championship, adding another illustrious chapter to his already legendary career.