Lionel Messi tops MLS salary chart with $28.3 million in 2026

Lionel Messi leads MLS players in 2026 with a guaranteed compensation of $28.3 million, representing 4.5% of the league's total guaranteed pay. The average MLS salary is around $686,000, while the median is $350,000, highlighting disparities in player earnings. Messi and the nine highest-paid players account for 15.2% of total guaranteed compensation despite being just 1.1% of all players. Inter Miami has the highest team payroll at $54.6 million, largely fueled by Messi's significant contribution. Details on salary trends reveal steady growth over the past two decades, particularly after recent collective bargaining agreements.

• 10:05 AMYahoo Sports — MLS salary rankings show why Lionel Messi contract is a big deal