Lionel Messi chose to play for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami despite fielding other offers from around the world. Now, the amount of money he will be making has been revealed.
Messi is expected to sign a contract for about two-and-a-half years, worth a total of around $150 million, which amounts to roughly $50 to $60 million per year, according to Sportico. He will also have an option for 2026.
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The soccer legend had reportedly received an offer from Saudi club Al-Hilal worth $400 million, but ultimately chose to play in the United States. Messi has said in the past that he dreamed of playing in the U.S. to follow the footsteps of other soccer greats.
Messi is aligned with the Saudis as a social media ambassador in a deal worth $25 million over three years. His contract with the MLS may seem like a huge pay cut over the Saudi club offer. However, there’s a lot more that could still come, including partnerships with brands like Apple (AAPL), which has a 10-year, $2.5 million broadcasting rights deal with MLS, and Adidas (ADDYY) , which has an $830-million deal as a merchandise sponsor.
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There are reports from The Athletic and the Miami Herald that Messi could receive some profit-sharing from the major brands which could bridge the gap between his other deals.
