At the 2026 World Cup, many eyes are on Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar isn’t just the most recognizable face in Major League Soccer—he’s also the undisputed leader in earnings. According to published salary data, the Inter Miami forward earns $20.5 million per year—roughly 17.65 million euros. That equals about 1.78 million euros per month, or 21.30 million euros annually. For soccer fans comparing international salary rankings, it’s important to note that MLS figures do not include sponsorship income. They only reflect the officially contracted player salary.

$20.5 million for Messi in Miami

How Focus According to reports, Messi’s earnings are nearly double those of Heung-min Son of LAFC, who earns 11.2 million US dollars. This data comes from the players’ union MLSPA, which publishes annual salary disclosures for professionals. Especially for star players, the gap between base salary and endorsement income can be substantial. When assessing these figures, it’s important to remember that brand and equipment deals are not included. Still, the list remains a key benchmark for league comparisons because it follows a unified methodology.

"Designated Player" Explains Messi's Special Status

A key factor behind Messi’s record-breaking salary is the MLS rule for so-called Designated Players. These players are exempt from the league’s salary cap. Inter Miami is allowed only three such designated players, and the World Cup winner occupies one of those spots. Alongside him are former Barcelona stars Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who have already announced their retirement. For league analysts, this structure is important because high salaries in MLS depend not only on market value but also on the availability of these special roster slots.

Thomas Müller will receive 1.4 million U.S. dollars

That’s why the comparison with Thomas Müller is particularly striking. The former German international currently earns only 1.4 million U.S. dollars with the Vancouver Whitecaps, even though he is far more globally recognized than many higher-paid MLS players. According to fussballtransfers.com, this is due to a specific contract structure: when Müller joined, all Designated Player spots were already filled. As a result, he signed a Targeted Allocation Money contract, allowing the club to pay him above the standard salary cap despite not being a DP.