The MLS Players Association has officially released its 2026 salary data, and as expected, Inter Miami's global icon Lionel Messi tops the list as the league's highest-paid player by a staggering margin.

Messi's guaranteed compensation for the 2026 season is set at $28.3 million—nearly three times more than the league's second-highest earner. That runner-up spot belongs to LAFC forward Son Heung-min, who will take home $11.2 million this year. Rounding out the podium is Messi's Inter Miami and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul, with a salary of $9.7 million.

Just outside the top three, San Diego FC's Hirving Lozano ranks fourth at $9.3 million—a notable figure given the Mexican forward has seen limited playing time this season due to being frozen out by the club. Atlanta United's Miguel Almirón completes the top five with a $7.9 million salary.

For fans keeping an eye on the league's financial landscape, these numbers underscore MLS's growing global appeal and the premium placed on star power. While Messi's earnings dominate headlines, the depth of talent—and corresponding paychecks—reflects a league that continues to attract world-class players from top European and South American clubs.

Whether you're cheering for a marquee name or an underdog rising through the ranks, the 2026 MLS season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet—both on the pitch and in the salary ledgers.