Lionel Messi, Inter Miami lead way as MLS salaries rise
Surging salaries in Major League Soccer were fueled by big spending from newcomers St. Louis City FC, the LA Galaxy and the Vancouver Whitecaps.
With big-name signings like Lionel Messi and Gareth Bale joining the league in recent months, Major League Soccer (MLS) is experiencing a surge in player salaries.
According to the MLS Players Association, the average salary for an MLS player in 2023 is $442,222, up from $372,033 in 2022. The minimum salary for an MLS player has also increased, from $81,300 in 2022 to $84,000 in 2023.
The increase in salaries is being driven by a number of factors, including the influx of new investors and the league's expansion into new markets. In 2023, MLS will add two new teams: St. Louis City FC and the Vegas Golden Knights. Both teams are expected to spend heavily on players in an effort to compete for a playoff spot.
Here are some of the highest-paid players in MLS in 2023:
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) - $7.3 million
- Gareth Bale (LAFC) - $6.0 million
- Xherdan Shaqiri (Chicago Fire) - $5.0 million
- Lorenzo Insigne (Toronto FC) - $4.5 million
- Douglas Costa (LA Galaxy) - $4.0 million
The increase in salaries is a sign of the growing popularity of MLS. The league is now one of the most popular soccer leagues in the world, and it is attracting some of the best players in the world.
The rise in salaries is also a sign of the increasing competitiveness of MLS. In recent years, the league has seen a number of teams invest heavily in their rosters, and the result has been a more competitive and exciting league.
Conclusion
The rise in salaries in MLS is a sign of the growing popularity and competitiveness of the league. With big-name signings like Lionel Messi and Gareth Bale joining the league, MLS is on the verge of becoming one of the most popular soccer leagues in the world.
