Major League Soccer (MLS), the top-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, has grown significantly since its inception in 1996. With increased investments in players, infrastructure, and global partnerships, the league has attracted international talent while providing opportunities for domestic players. A common question among soccer fans is: How much does a MLS player make a year? Win Betting Tips delves into the salary structure of MLS players, key factors influencing earnings, and notable examples from recent seasons.
Who are the highest aid MLS players?
The Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape has significantly evolved regarding player salaries, with Lionel Messi as the highest earner by a considerable margin. According to the 2024 Salary Guide released by the MLS Players Association (MLSPA), Messi’s earnings reflect the league’s increasing financial investment in top talent. His contributions on and off the field have bolstered Inter Miami’s success and elevated the global profile of MLS.
A broader look at the report reveals that 114 players in the league now earn more than $1 million annually, a record-breaking figure compared to the 113 players in 2023. This is a stark contrast to August 2007, when the league had only four million-dollar earners, including icons like David Beckham, Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Juan Pablo Ángel, and Claudio Reyna. At that time, Beckham was the highest-paid player, with an annual salary of $5.5 million—an amount dwarfed by the earnings of today’s stars like Messi. This upward trajectory in salaries highlights the league's growth and its ability to attract world-class talent.
How much does a MLS player make a year?
The salary structure in Major League Soccer (MLS) reflects a league where the "middle class" of players remains dominant, even as high-profile stars and millionaires like Lionel Messi garner much of the attention. While there are now 114 millionaires in the league, they represent a minority. This is primarily due to the Maximum Salary Budget Charge that each franchise must adhere to. In 2024, the overall salary budget for each franchise increased to $5,470,000 million, up from $5,210,000 in 2023 and $4,900,000 in 2022. This gradual rise underscores MLS’s efforts to balance fiscal growth with competitive parity.
However, salary disparities within clubs remain significant, a point that USMNT legend Tim Howard has highlighted as an area that will need addressing in the future. With opportunities like Lionel Messi's arrival, the influx of international stars, and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, MLS has a unique chance to attract top-tier talent in their prime. Yet this potential growth could be hindered if wages remain insufficient to lure big-name players.
Despite these challenges, the median salary in MLS continues to rise. How much does the average MLS player make a year? Since 2021, the average MLS salary has grown from $418,014 to $594,390 in 2024, reflecting the league’s steady financial evolution and its commitment to improving conditions for a broader range of players. This trend, while promising, highlights the delicate balance between attracting global stars and maintaining a robust, equitable salary structure for all players.
The 4 highest paid MLS players
Here’s an in-depth look at the four highest-paid players in MLS and their contributions to the league’s success.
1. How much does a MLS player make? Lionel Messi – Inter Miami CF ($20,446,667)
At the top of the list, Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has taken MLS by storm. Joining Inter Miami CF in 2023, Messi's arrival was a historic moment for the league, marking the beginning of a new era. With a staggering annual salary of $20.4 million, Messi’s influence extends beyond the pitch.
His presence has boosted ticket sales, television ratings, and merchandise revenue, making him a transformative figure for the league. On the field, his creativity, precision, and ability to inspire teammates have elevated Inter Miami’s performance and drawn global attention to MLS.
2. Lorenzo Insigne – Toronto FC ($15,400,000)
Second on the list is Lorenzo Insigne, an Italian winger known for his agility, technique, and goal-scoring ability. Insigne joined Toronto FC in 2022 after a successful career at Napoli in Serie A. How much does a MLS player make? With an annual salary of $15.4 million, he is the highest-paid player in Canadian football history.
His move to MLS demonstrated the league’s growing appeal to European stars in their prime. Insigne has been a crucial player for Toronto, leading their attack with flair and determination. His presence has also inspired younger players and enhanced the team’s competitiveness in the league.
3. Sergio Busquets – Inter Miami CF ($8,774,996)
Another key figure at Inter Miami CF is Sergio Busquets, a legendary midfielder and longtime teammate of Lionel Messi at Barcelona. Earning nearly $8.8 million annually, Busquets brought his experience, composure, and tactical intelligence to MLS.
His role as a deep-lying playmaker has been instrumental in stabilizing Miami’s midfield, allowing the team to control games more effectively. Busquets’ arrival, alongside Messi’s, has signaled Inter Miami’s ambition to become a dominant force in MLS and an attractive destination for top-tier talent.
4. Xherdan Shaqiri – Chicago Fire ($8,153,000)
In fourth place is Xherdan Shaqiri, a Swiss international and one of the most versatile players in MLS. How much money does a MLS player make? With an annual salary of $8.15 million, Shaqiri has become a central figure for the Chicago Fire. Known for his vision, creativity, and powerful left foot, he has been pivotal in Chicago’s attacking play.
Shaqiri’s signing represents MLS’s commitment to attracting players who can make an immediate impact and raise the league’s overall quality.
5. Sebastian Driussi – Austin FC ($6,722,500)
Sebastian Driussi has become one of MLS’s most valuable players since joining Austin FC. Earning an annual salary of $6.7 million, the Argentine midfielder is a driving force behind Austin’s success on the pitch. Known for his creativity, technical skills, and eye for goal, Driussi has brought a level of flair that has captivated fans and opponents alike.
Driussi’s journey to MLS is a testament to his determination and skill. After excelling in his early years at River Plate in Argentina and later at Zenit St. Petersburg in Russia, Driussi sought a new challenge in MLS. His move to Austin FC marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, where he quickly adapted to the league's physical and tactical demands.
6. Federico Bernardeschi – Toronto FC ($6,295,381)
Italian winger Federico Bernardeschi stands out as one of the most recognizable names in MLS. Earning just over $6.29 million annually, he represents Toronto FC’s ambition to compete at the highest level. Bernardeschi’s move to MLS came after a successful stint at Juventus, where he honed his skills playing alongside some of Europe’s best.
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Known for his versatility, Bernardeschi excels as a winger or attacking midfielder. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, take on defenders, and score from distance makes him a constant threat. Since joining Toronto FC, Bernardeschi has showcased his creativity and technical prowess, becoming a key figure in the team’s offensive play.
7. Emil Forsberg – New York Red Bulls ($6,035,625)
Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg is another standout talent in MLS, earning an impressive $6.03 million annually with the New York Red Bulls. Renowned for his vision, passing ability, and composure under pressure, Forsberg has brought a wealth of experience to the league.
Forsberg’s career blossomed during his time at RB Leipzig in Germany, where he was instrumental in the team’s rise to prominence in the Bundesliga and Europe. His decision to join the New York Red Bulls marked a significant milestone for MLS, highlighting the league’s ability to attract players in their prime.
Final Thoughts
How much does a MLS player make? MLS player salaries vary widely, influenced by factors such as experience, performance, and marketability. While high-profile players like Lionel Messi earn millions, the league also offers opportunities for young and developing talent to build successful careers. With its unique structure and focus on growth, MLS is poised to continue its evolution as a competitive and attractive destination for players worldwide.
Refer more: Analyzing the impressive Messi goal per game ratio history.
