Lionel Messi’s annual compensation with Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami significantly surpasses that of nearly all other players in the league, according to recent figures. The Argentine forward, who is often linked to retirement from international football, reportedly earns a total salary of approximately $54.6 million, a figure that exceeds the combined payrolls of 28 out of the 29 MLS teams.

Messi’s base salary stands at $12 million, translating to roughly $1.97 million per month. In addition to this, he receives around $28.3 million annually in bonuses and various allowances, bringing his estimated total earnings to between $70 million and $80 million per year.

Comparatively, the next highest-paid player in the MLS, based with Los Angeles FC, draws a salary of about $32.7 million. This stark difference highlights Messi’s unique financial status in the league, as his compensation is more than double that of other top earners.

These figures underscore the growing financial muscle and appeal of MLS, especially with international stars such as Messi joining the league. While Messi has not officially announced retirement plans from international duty, his lucrative MLS contract reflects the league’s ambition to raise its competitive profile on the global football stage.