The 2026 Major League Soccer salary guide, released by the MLSPA, confirms what many already suspected: Lionel Messi remains in a financial league of his own. The Inter Miami captain’s guaranteed compensation of $28.3 million not only doubles the earnings of any other player in the league but also exceeds the total payroll spending of 27 out of 29 MLS teams. Only his own club and LAFC spend more on their entire rosters than Messi earns individually.
This figure marks a significant jump from the $20.4 million he received in 2025, an increase of nearly $8 million in just one year. It’s a reflection of both his enduring star power and the league’s willingness to invest heavily in global icons ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Mexico and Canada.
Rodrigo De Paul and the Miami Effect
Close behind in the rankings is Rodrigo De Paul, who joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2025 from Atlético de Madrid. With a base salary of $7.5 million and total compensation of $9.6 million, the Argentine midfielder sits third on the list, trailing only Messi and South Korean star Son Heung-min of LAFC. De Paul’s arrival has further solidified Inter Miami’s status as the league’s most valuable franchise, now worth $1.35 billion according to Forbes. The club’s revenue has skyrocketed from $56 million in 2022 to nearly $200 million last season, a financial transformation driven largely by the Messi effect.
Off the pitch, De Paul’s personal life has also drawn attention. He recently confirmed his engagement to Argentine singer Tini, a story that resonated across Latin American media. Tini and Rodrigo De Paul Confirm Engagement with Ring Photo captured the moment for fans following the couple.
International Stars in the Top 10
The 2026 salary list also highlights the growing presence of Latin American talent in MLS. Mexico’s Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, now with San Diego FC, ranks fourth with $9.3 million in guaranteed compensation. Paraguay’s Miguel Almirón of Atlanta United follows at $7.9 million. European veterans like Germany’s Thomas Müller (Vancouver Whitecaps) and Sweden’s Emil Forsberg (New York Red Bulls) round out the top ten, earning between $5 and $6 million each.
This influx of international stars is raising the league’s competitive profile. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, MLS is positioning itself as a destination for elite footballers, with clubs investing heavily to attract names that resonate globally. Messi Picks France, Spain, Brazil as 2026 World Cup Favorites, Cautions Argentina offers his perspective on the tournament that will further spotlight the league.
On the Pitch: Eastern Conference Race
Inter Miami’s financial success is translating into results. Under coach Gerardo Martino, the team recently secured a 4-2 away victory against Toronto FC, with goals from both Messi and De Paul. The Florida side currently sits third in the Eastern Conference with 22 points, trailing Nashville SC and New England Revolution. Their next test comes Wednesday against FC Cincinnati, as they aim to solidify their position before moving into their new stadium at Miami Freedom Park.
Messi’s influence extends beyond the salary sheet. He has also been active in shaping the league’s narrative, recently naming Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal as a potential heir. Messi Names Lamine Yamal as His Heir: The 18-Year-Old Who Could Surpass Him explores that endorsement. Meanwhile, his partnership with Bad Bunny for Adidas’ World Cup campaign underscores the cultural crossover between Latin music and football. Messi and Bad Bunny Team Up for Adidas' World Cup 2026 Campaign details that collaboration.
As MLS continues to grow, the presence of players like Messi and De Paul is reshaping not just the league’s finances but its identity. For Latino fans across the Americas, seeing Argentine stars dominate the salary rankings feels like a natural extension of the region’s footballing legacy. The 2026 season is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the league, with the World Cup on the horizon and Inter Miami leading the charge both on and off the field.
