Lionel Messi. The name alone conjures images of dazzling footwork, impossible goals, and a trophy cabinet overflowing with silverware. But beyond the magic on the field, there’s another aspect that piques the curiosity of fans: his salary. So, how much does Messi make in a week? Buckle up, because the answer might surprise you.
From Barcelona Benchwarmer to Mega-Millionaire: A Salary History
Messi’s journey to becoming one of the highest-paid athletes in the world is a fascinating one. His early days at Barcelona saw him develop his now-legendary skills, but his salary was understandably modest. However, as his talent blossomed, so did his earnings. By the 2017-2018 season, he was reportedly raking in a staggering €761,942 ($880,000) weekly at Barcelona, according to AiScore [m.aiscore.com]. This figure continued to climb steadily, peaking at a mind-blowing €1.3 million ($1.5 million) per week during the 2019-2021 seasons.
There was a slight dip when Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021. While still a king’s ransom, his reported weekly wages dropped to a “mere” €1.2 million ($1.4 million) [m.aiscore.com]. This was likely due to the financial landscape of the club and Ligue 1 compared to his Barcelona contract.
The Miami Millions: A New Chapter, A New Paycheck
Fast forward to 2023, and Messi signed a lucrative deal with Inter Miami, reportedly becoming the highest-paid athlete in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. Here, the numbers get interesting. Sources like Sportskeeda [sportskeeda.com] suggest a hefty annual salary of $54 million, translating to a cool $1.2 million weekly.
However, it’s important to remember that not all of this is pure take-home pay. As a high earner, Messi faces significant taxes, including federal tax, state tax (Florida has none), a “jock tax” specific to athletes, and FICA/Medicare contributions. Reports estimate his net income after taxes to be around $31.7 million annually.
So, Who Gets Paid More: Messi or Ronaldo?
The Messi-Ronaldo salary debate has raged for years. While Messi’s recent move might make it seem like he’s finally overtaken his long-time rival, the truth is a little more nuanced. Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia boasts a staggering reported annual salary of £173 million ($207 million), which translates to a weekly wage of a mind-blowing £3.3 million ($4 million) [GiveMeSport.com]. So, in this round, Ronaldo takes the crown (and the bigger paycheck).
Beyond the Paycheck: The Value of Messi
It’s important to understand that Messi’s worth extends far beyond his weekly salary. He’s a global brand, attracting sponsorships and endorsement deals from major companies like Adidas, Apple, and Fanatics. These deals likely bring in significant additional income.
Furthermore, Messi’s presence on the field translates to a significant financial boost for the clubs he plays for. Increased ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and global exposure all contribute to a team’s financial well-being. Inter Miami, for instance, is expected to see a surge in popularity and commercial opportunities thanks to Messi’s star power.
The Future of Messi’s Millions: Will He Stay the Highest-Paid in MLS?
While Messi currently reigns supreme in MLS salaries, the landscape is constantly evolving. With the league aiming to attract more big names, it’s possible that future signings could challenge his top earner status. However, Messi’s immense talent, experience, and global appeal make him a valuable asset, and Inter Miami is likely to retain its investment for the foreseeable future.
The Final Whistle: More Than Just Money
Lionel Messi’s weekly salary is undoubtedly impressive, a testament to his exceptional skills and the global appeal of football. However, his value transcends mere monetary figures. He’s an inspiration to aspiring athletes, a marketing powerhouse, and a true legend of the beautiful game. As he continues his career in the United States, one thing is certain: the magic of Messi, both on and off the field, will continue to captivate fans and generate financial rewards for years to come.
FAQ’S
How much does Lionel Messi earn per week?
As of June 2024, Lionel Messi’s reported weekly salary is around $1.2 million. This hefty sum comes from his recent transfer to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Is that the highest salary in MLS history?
Absolutely! Messi’s contract makes him the highest-paid player in MLS history, surpassing the previous record holder, Xherdan Shaqiri, by a significant margin.
How does this compare to his previous salary?
During his time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Messi reportedly earned around $800,000 per week. This was a significant decrease from his peak salary at FC Barcelona, which was estimated to be over $1 million weekly.
Why did Messi take a pay cut to join Inter Miami?
There could be several reasons behind this. Firstly, MLS salary structures are generally lower compared to European leagues. Additionally, Messi might be nearing the end of his playing career, and a move to the US could be more lifestyle-driven, focusing on brand building and market expansion in North America.
What are some other factors that contribute to Messi’s income?
Messi’s wealth extends far beyond his weekly salary. He has lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Adidas, Apple, and Fanatics. These deals likely bring him millions of dollars annually. Additionally, signing bonuses and potential performance incentives within his contract could further increase his earnings.
How much will Messi take home after taxes?
Taxes will take a significant chunk out of Messi’s salary. He’ll face federal taxes, state income tax (though Florida has no state income tax),jock tax (a special tax on professional athletes), and FICA/Medicare contributions. Estimates suggest his net income could be around $31.7 million annually.
Is Messi still the highest-paid footballer in the world?
While Messi’s move to MLS made him the highest-paid player in that league, Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent transfer to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia reportedly comes with a much higher salary, exceeding $3 million per week.
What’s next for Messi?
Messi’s move to Inter Miami signifies a new chapter in his career. He’ll be looking to continue his dominance on the field while also potentially influencing the growth of MLS and football in the United States.
Where can I find updates on Messi’s salary and career?
Several reputable sports news websites and publications regularly track athlete salaries and transfers. You can also follow Inter Miami’s official channels and Messi’s social media accounts for updates on his career.
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