Highest Paid Players In The MLS 25/26 Season
Major League Soccer (MLS) has entered a new era. Once known mainly as a developmental league, it is now a destination where global stars, prime-age leaders, and ambitious clubs come together. With rising commercial power and global attention, salaries across the league reflect that shift. The highest paid players in MLS are not just earning big contracts, they are shaping the identity of the competition and showing how far the league has come.
From worldwide icons to emerging stars, these are the highest paid players in MLS for the 25/26 season.
1. Lionel Messi – Inter Miami (€12M per year)
Lionel Messi remains the benchmark. Since arriving at Inter Miami, he has transformed not only the club, but the global perception of MLS. His presence has boosted ticket sales, media rights, and commercial interest across the league. On the pitch, Messi continues to deliver moments of brilliance, combining vision, creativity, and leadership. His salary reflects more than performances alone. It reflects his unmatched influence on football culture worldwide.
2. Heung-min Son – LAFC (€10.36M per year)
LAFC’s move for Heung-min Son sent a clear message. The South Korean star brings pace, intelligence, and elite-level experience to the West Coast. Known for his work rate and professionalism, Son fits perfectly into LAFC’s high-tempo playstyle. His arrival strengthens the league’s Asian stars while adding proven quality in the final third. At this level, he is both a sporting and commercial asset.
3. Miguel Almirón – Atlanta United (€6.05M per year)
Miguel Almirón’s return to Atlanta United feels like a reunion with unfinished business. Already a fan favourite from his first MLS spell, he now returns as a more complete player after years in Europe. His energy, directness, and creativity remain central to Atlanta’s attacking identity. Almirón’s salary reflects his importance as both a leader and a symbol of MLS players succeeding abroad, coming back stronger.
4. Hirving Lozano – San Diego FC (€6M per year)
San Diego FC made an immediate statement by signing Hirving Lozano. The Mexican international brings Champions League experience, pace, and a fearless attacking mindset. Lozano gives the expansion club instant hype and star appeal, while also raising expectations on the pitch. His signing highlights how new MLS franchises now think big from day one.
5. Emil Forsberg – NY Red Bulls (€5.4M per year)
Emil Forsberg played at brother club Red Bull Leipzig for many years. He adds a different profile to this list. Calm, intelligent, and technically refined, he brings structure and creativity to the Red Bulls’ midfield. His experience at the highest European level offers balance in a league often driven by pace and physicality. Forsberg’s role goes beyond goals and assists, dictating rhythm, decision-making, and leadership.
Rest of the list;
6. Riqui Puig – LA Galaxy (€5.12M per year)
7. Jonathan Bamba – Chicago Fire (€5M per year)
8. Carles Gil – NE Revolution (€4.25M per year)
9. Hany Mukhtar – Nashville SC (€3.9M per year)
10. Kévin Denkey – FC Cincinnati (€3.8M per year)
The information in this article regarding player salaries has been obtained via Capology.
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