UNVEILED: Lionel Messi’s contract and salary breakdown at Inter Miami

Lionel Messi has moved across the pond and made America his new home. The superstar has signed a contract with Inter Miami, and will now bask in the sunny beaches of Florida. The former PSG man decided not to continue in the French capital after two rather underwhelming seasons. 

Unsurprisingly, there was a considerable demand for the legendary Argentinian. Former club FC Barcelona were in the mix, but financial constraints meant that a fairytale return was off the cards. Saudi outfit Al-Hilal were also in the mix, a move that could have reignited the Ronaldo-Messi rivalry. But Messi looked west and signed for Inter Miami, which is co-owned by David Beckham.

According to Jorge Mas, Messi will get a salary between $50 million to $60 million from the Miami-based franchise. This will make him one of the highest earners in the league.

The move has caught the attention of not just football fans, but sports fanatics worldwide. The acquisition of the game’s biggest star obviously has tremendous consequences for the sport in the USA. Messi moving there could also spell good news for the 2026 World Cup, which the USA is set to co-host with Mexico and Canada.

How Apple and Adidas Got Messi to Uncle Sam’s Land

Quite understandably, attracting a player like Lionel Messi demanded a lot of financial resources. MLS sponsors Adidas and Apple were also heavily involved in the deal to make the big-money move possible. 

According to reports, Lionel Messi is said to receive a share of the revenue from new subscriptions to MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+. Apple won the rights to broadcast USA’s top-flight soccer competition, with a 10-year deal amounting to $2.5 billion. 

Additionally, Adidas, which already sponsors Messi, will offer him a portion of the profits from MLS merchandise sales. The German sports brand currently manufactures kits for all 29 teams in the MLS. This would be in addition to their long-standing sponsorship and the lifetime contract signed with Messi in 2017.

Club Owner Messi?

Lastly, club ownership may also be on the cards for the former Barcelona man. After his playing days are behind him, Messi can continue to earn by owning a stake in an extension franchise. This was done back in the day to attract David Beckham as well, who established Inter Miami in 2018.

Combining all of this, Messi is set to earn a whopping sum of anywhere between $125 million to $150 million dollars in the next 2.5 years. There is an option to extend the contract by a year, which would allow the East Coast club to keep him for 12 more months.

In conclusion, Messi coming to the United States is a win-win for all parties. The player gets to live in a place where he won’t be under the usual level of scrutiny, and various sponsors can profit from the increased revenue he brings.

FAQ’s

Who else was in the race for the Argentine?

When Messi left Barcelona in 2021, fans were shocked. His loyalty was legendary. His return to PSG was rumored but didn’t happen. The Saudi Pro League was another option, but Messi wasn’t interested.

Is Messi the biggest name to head to America?

Without a doubt. The MLS has been a league that many superstars have headed to in their twilight years. They include Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wayne Rooney, Didier Drogba, and David Beckham. However, it is fair to say that none of them enjoyed the same level of legendary status and admiration as the recent World Cup winner.

How can Messi help Inter Miami?

Lionel Messi, an athletic marvel, remains a top performer in his mid-30s. Inter Miami, struggling in the MLS, pins hopes on his talent.

In case you missed it:

• Is Lionel Messi getting a percentage share in Adidas upon his mega move to Inter Miami?
• Is Lionel Messi getting a percentage share in Apple upon his mega move to Inter Miami?

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW