WHAT HAPPENED
The initial 2025 salary data released by the MLS Players Association confirms Lionel Messi as the highest-paid player in the league, with total compensation amounting to $20.4 million. The list of the top five earners now features two new entries: Miguel Almiron, set to earn $7.87 million following his return to Atlanta United from Newcastle United, and Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, whose $7.63 million compensation marks him as a key acquisition for San Diego FC`s debut season. Additionally, Jonathan Bamba joins the list of high earners, receiving $5.58 million after signing with Chicago Fire FC this past winter.
THE FULL TOP TEN LIST
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): $20,446,667
- Lorenzo Insigne (Toronto FC): $15,400,000
- Sergio Busquets (Inter Miami): $8,774,996
- Miguel Almiron (Atlanta United): $7,871,000
- Chucky Lozano (San Diego FC): $7,633,333
- Federico Bernardeschi (Toronto FC): $6,295,381
- Emil Forsberg (New York Red Bulls): $6,035,625
- Jordi Alba (Inter Miami): $6,000,000
- Riqui Puig (LA Galaxy): $5,779,688
- Jonathan Bamba (Chicago Fire): $5,581,806
THE BIGGER PICTURE
These figures highlight the ongoing financial evolution of MLS and its increasing capability to attract prominent international talent with competitive compensation packages.
WHAT’S NEXT?
With the 2025 season already in progress, these highly compensated players will face immediate pressure to justify their significant salaries through strong performances on the field.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood