Acquiring one of the world’s premier soccer talents, Lionel Messi, comes at a significant cost, as highlighted by Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas. Recently, Mas revealed that maintaining such elite players requires substantial financial backing, estimating Messi’s total annual compensation to be between $70 and $80 million. This figure emphasizes not only the financial demands of top-tier soccer but also the need for robust sponsorship support to meet these expenses.
While specifics of Messi’s contract with Inter Miami were not fully disclosed, it is known from the MLS Players’ Association salary guide that Messi boasts the highest base salary in the league at $12 million, with guaranteed compensation of $20.4 million. This information was released prior to his recent three-year contract extension, which further enhances his earnings due to various arrangements with the club, including an equity stake and performance-based bonuses that confirm his status as a part-owner of Inter Miami upon his retirement.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or laureate and World Cup champion, ranks as the second-highest paid soccer player globally, following Cristiano Ronaldo, whose estimated annual salary with Al-Nassr is around $230 million.
Messi first joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 on a hefty two-and-a-half-year deal worth $150 million. His impact on the team has been profound; he guided the club to triumph in the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. Following an extension signed on October 23, 2025, Messi is set to remain with Inter Miami until 2028, coinciding with the launch of Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park as well as his 41st birthday. Remarkably, just months after extending his contract, he propelled the team to its inaugural MLS Cup title.
According to a report by Forbes, Messi’s total estimated annual earnings amount to around $130 million, with approximately $70 million stemming from off-field ventures through lucrative endorsement partnerships with notable brands like Adidas, Lay’s, and Mastercard. Ronaldo’s earnings are projected at $280 million, which includes $50 million from endorsements.
In conclusion, while the financial investment in securing Messi’s services is immense, the returns—both on-field success and global brand elevation—suggest that the investment is indeed worthwhile for Inter Miami. The presence of such a legendary figure in the sport may bring not just accomplishments on the pitch but also increased visibility and revenue for the club.