Lionel Messi is the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer for the third straight year with total annual compensation of $20.4 million, greater than the entire payroll of 21 teams.

Lionel Messi is expected to sign a contract extension soon that would keep him on the Inter Miami roster at least through next season. Negotiations have been going on for months, and club ownership is eager to get a deal done and ensure that the Argentine icon will be on the field for the opening of Miami Freedom Park in early 2026.

Major League Soccer season, Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi played in a mere 55% of available games. Still, despite his limited participation in a pink jersey, Messi led the club to the Supporters' Shield and an MLS points record,