Inter Miami Owner: "Messi's Annual Salary Ranges Between $70-80 Million, Including Club Ownership Stake"

Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas has revealed the true figures behind Argentine star Lionel Messi's transfer to Major League Soccer (MLS), confirming that he earns between $70 million and $80 million annually, which includes his stake in the club's ownership.

Mas stated in comments reported by Bloomberg: "The reason I am looking for new sponsors is the rising cost of players. For example, Messi receives an amount ranging between $70 million and $80 million annually."

The Athletic newspaper reported that Messi's basic salary is $12 million, which rises to $20.45 million with bonuses. However, his total annual earnings exceed $70 million when factoring in his percentage of the club's ownership.

Furthermore, experts from Sportico anticipate that Inter Miami's valuation will increase by 22%, reaching $1.35 billion, which would make it the most valuable club in North America.