The recent release of player salary information by the MLS Players Association has shed significant light on the financial landscape of Major League Soccer for the upcoming season. This year’s data was released a month later than in 2024 and reveals intriguing salary dynamics among the league’s players, especially following an influx of talent.
Lionel Messi remains the standout figure, maintaining his status as the highest-earning player in MLS with a guaranteed compensation of $20.4 million from Inter Miami. This figure does not encompass additional financial incentives from sponsors and partnerships, which were crucial in attracting him to the league in 2023. Following Messi, Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto FC holds the second-highest salary at $15.4 million, though Toronto finds itself struggling near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
Inter Miami continues to lead in total salary expenditure, spending over $46.8 million on player wages, a decisive 37.2% more than Toronto FC, the next highest. This dominance in spending reflects a growing trend in the league, where ten clubs are now investing over $20 million in guaranteed player compensation, a marked rise from just a few years ago when only two teams reached that threshold.
The data not only highlights individual salaries but also offers insight into squad balance, with premier players often out-earning their teammates significantly. For example, Messi’s salary accounts for nearly 44% of Miami’s total wage bill, the highest percentage among league teams. In contrast, St. Louis City has a more balanced approach, where the highest earner makes up just over 12% of the team’s total compensation.
A notable observation from the data is the shift in team structures, as 15 franchises have new top earners for the upcoming season, underscoring a busy winter transfer window. Significant movements included FC Cincinnati’s Kévin Denkey, purchased for a record $16.2 million, and Atlanta United’s Emmanuel Latte Lath, acquired for $22 million. Interestingly, neither player became their respective team’s highest earner, which highlights the shifting dynamics of player compensation.
Among new arrivals, Miguel Almirón stands out with a $7.87 million salary upon returning from Newcastle United, closely followed by San Diego’s Hirving Lozano, earning $7.63 million. Other notable high earners include Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting and Wilfried Zaha, both adjusting to their new teams.
The latest salary data indicates that 19 players earn at least $4 million, while 33 players exceed $3 million annually. This compensation structure reflects the league’s growing competitiveness and appeal, especially as it continues to attract international talent.
In a departure from the highest earners, the report also highlights the “MLS Bargain XI,” showcasing players whose performance significantly outweighs their compensation. This list includes standout talents who, despite earning less than their counterparts, contribute effectively to their teams.
Overall, this year’s salary release characterizes a league undergoing significant transformation, with escalating investments in player talent and an evolving marketplace that could enhance the level of competition. The hope is that MLS will continue to thrive, growing in both quality and popularity on the world stage.