Fans and football enthusiasts have always shown keen interest in the salaries of football superstars. Yet, precise details are rarely made public, and most reports rely on media sources and statistical websites for estimates.
Recently, Jorge Mas, co-owner of Inter Miami, publicly disclosed Lionel Messi’s earnings at the club. According to Mas, Messi earns between $70 million and $80 million annually from Inter Miami. This figure includes his share of the club’s ownership, highlighting that his income is not limited to a standard player’s salary. Mas emphasised the importance of sponsorship and diverse revenue streams in managing such substantial expenditures.
Inter Miami recently signed a sponsorship agreement with the Brazilian financial services company Nu Holding, granting the firm naming rights for the club’s new stadium near Miami International Airport, currently under construction.
Strategic Planning Behind Messi’s Arrival
In an interview with ESPN, Inter Miami’s Business Operations President Javier Arzani revealed that preparations for Messi joining the club had begun well in advance. “I do not believe in luck. To me, luck is the convergence of preparation and opportunity,” Arzani said. He added, “Events may unfold naturally, or you may influence them. Either way, preparation is key. Messi’s arrival was no accident; it is the result of planning, strategy, and long-term readiness. This reflects the American ethos: aim for the best and be prepared for the worst.”
The new Nu Stadium, with a seating capacity of 26,700, is scheduled to host its inaugural match on 4 April.
Messi’s Compensation Details
In a Bloomberg interview last Friday, Mas elaborated on Messi’s compensation. He said, “Player salaries are substantial, which is why securing world-class sponsors is crucial. Messi earns between $70 million and $80 million per year. Every dollar is well-earned.”
Messi is currently the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer (MLS). According to the MLS Players Association’s salary guidelines, his base salary is $12 million, with guaranteed earnings of $20.45 million—significantly less than the total figure reported by Mas. Beyond these earnings, Messi also benefits from club ownership and other lucrative commercial agreements, which form the bulk of his total income.
The table below summarises Messi’s reported earnings from Inter Miami:
| Earnings Source | Amount (USD Million) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary (MLS) | 12 | Direct club salary |
| Guaranteed Compensation | 20.45 | MLS Players Association figures |
| Total Annual Earnings | 70–80 | Includes salary, sponsorship, and ownership income |
| Club Ownership Income | Included | Significant contributor to total income |
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has not only elevated the club’s profile but also emphasised the financial scale of modern football, where player earnings extend far beyond their on-field salary.
