The Elite Earnings Ranking:
Cristiano Ronaldo: €203 million per annum
Karim Benzema: €202 million per annum
Neymar: €162 million per annum
N’Golo Kanté: €101 million per annum
Kylian Mbappé: €72 million per annum
Riyad Mahrez: €52 million per annum
Lionel Messi: €50 million per annum
Jordan Henderson: €42 million per annum
Sadio Mané: €39 million per annum
Kalidou Koulibaly: €35 million per annum
Messi’s Venture into the MLS: A Unique Contract with Unconventional Perks
Lionel Messi, despite securing the 7th position in the earnings hierarchy, is far from missing out on exceptional advantages. As he transitions to the MLS, his contract with Inter Miami FC is rumored to be extraordinary in its terms. While his salary might seem modest compared to that of Cristiano Ronaldo, a closer look at his contract’s unique clauses tells a different story.
Ownership Stake and Apple’s Allure:
Embedded within Messi’s agreement is a groundbreaking provision where he’s poised to earn a share of profits from a collaboration between the MLS and colossal brands, including tech giant Apple. Furthermore, the venerable sportswear brand Adidas, a long-standing sponsor of the league, is also believed to have influenced the signing of Messi with Inter Miami FC.
The Contractual Intricacies:
While final procedures are being ironed out for Messi’s engagement with Inter Miami FC, ESPN has disclosed that his anticipated annual earnings will stand at $54 million USD. This figure, while significantly lower than Ronaldo’s earnings in Saudi Arabia, comes with a range of specialized clauses that could lead to substantial future earnings for the Argentine superstar.
Ownership Opportunity and Broadcasting Bonanza:
One such clause affords Messi the right to become a co-owner of Inter Miami FC. Currently valued at nearly $600 million USD, the Miami-based club is helmed by former football legend David Beckham. Additionally, the second clause holds the promise of even greater revenue. Messi is set to receive a share of profits from Apple TV’s broadcasting rights for MLS, following Apple TV’s recent $2.5 billion USD 10-year broadcasting deal with the league.
Adidas in the Mix:
Notably, another heavyweight entity, Adidas, plays a significant role in Messi’s journey. A lifelong partnership between Messi and Adidas is rumored to be valued at a staggering $1 billion USD.
The Outcome: A Remarkable Transition:
Though Messi turned down a $1 billion USD offer from Saudi Arabia, his journey with Inter Miami FC promises substantial earnings befitting his status as one of the world’s foremost football icons. In this era of nuanced contracts and innovative perks, the 2023/24 financial landscape of football showcases the evolving dynamics of player remuneration and the intricate partnerships that define modern football.
