Lionel Messi shines not only on the field but off it as well. According to the latest report published by the MLS Players Association (MLSPA), the Argentine star from Inter Miami once again tops the list of the league’s highest-paid players, with an annual salary of $20.4 million for the 2025 season.

Since his arrival in MLS, Messi's impact has been undeniable—record-breaking attendance, commercial growth for the club, and notable on-field success. Economically, his presence has also raised the bar for franchise player investment, something clearly reflected in the current salary rankings.

Inter Miami Dominates the Top 10: Messi, Busquets, and Alba Among the Highest Paid

Inter Miami’s presence in the top of the salary rankings is significant. In addition to Messi, the team owned by David Beckham features Sergio Busquets, ranked third with a salary of $8.8 million, and Jordi Alba, who sits in eighth place with $6 million.

Coming in second is Italian forward Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto FC, earning $15.4 million. In fourth place is Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almirón, who returned to MLS with Atlanta United, making $7.9 million annually.

Mexican star Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano, a recent signing for San Diego FC, ranks fifth with $7.6 million, making him one of the highest-paid Latin American players in the league.

The top 10 is rounded out by Italian Federico Bernardeschi (Toronto FC, $6.3 million), Swedish midfielder Emil Forsberg (New York Red Bulls, $6 million), Spanish midfielder Riqui Puig (LA Galaxy, $5.8 million), and Ivorian winger Jonathan Bamba (Chicago Fire, $5.6 million).

These figures highlight the league’s strategy of attracting international talent with competitive wages, further establishing MLS as a prime destination for elite players. Yet, despite the influx of big names, Messi remains the undisputed king—on the pitch and on the payroll.