MLS Salary Data: Messi Leads the Way, but Big Spend Doesn’t Guarantee Success
The latest salary data is in, and it’s no surprise that Lionel Messi is once again at the top of the list. The Argentine superstar is making waves in his first season with Inter Miami, and his astronomical salary is a major factor in the team’s success on the pitch. But with big money comes big expectations, and not every team that spends a pretty penny is guaranteed to achieve the same level of success as Messi and the Miami.
According to the latest data from the MLS Players Association (MLSPA), Messi’s annual guaranteed compensation is a whopping $20.4 million. But what about the rest of the league? The average MLS salary across all teams is now up 9.7% to $596,226, with the median guaranteed base compensation rising 9.3% to $308,375.
Despite the influx of cash, not every team is seeing the same level of success. In fact, four of the top 10 spenders in the league missed the playoffs, and it’s clear that just throwing money at the problem won’t guarantee a spot in the postseason. Meanwhile, teams like Los Angeles FC, the LA Galaxy, and Nashville SC are all going deep in the playoffs while spending relatively modest amounts.
So, what does it take to succeed in MLS? It’s clear that a combination of quality players, smart coaching, and a bit of luck all come into play. But for now, Messi remains the best of the best, and his team is reaping the rewards of his incredible talent. Follow us on all social media platforms for more updates on the world of soccer!