MLS’s Wildest Paychecks: The 25 Top Earners Ranked by Monthly Salary
Major League Soccer isn’t just attracting big names—it’s also handing out some jaw-dropping salaries. While Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets grab headlines, they're far from the only ones earning big. We've examined official contract figures to rank the 25 highest-paid players in MLS, based on their monthly salaries in euros.
25 – Dejan Joveljić: €67,275/month
The Serbian forward at LA Galaxy has yet to fully make his mark in MLS. Still, the club is investing in his potential with a respectable monthly salary.
24 – Denis Bouanga: €71,760/month
Bouanga is a high-energy forward for LAFC who combines pace with pressure. His work rate and goal threat make him a key player in their attack.
23 – Luciano Acosta: €74,750/month
Acosta captains FC Cincinnati with flair and intelligence. His playmaking ability keeps him at the heart of everything creative on the pitch.
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22 – Joseph Paintsil: €84,994/month
Paintsil has quickly made an impact in MLS with his explosive pace and dribbling. The Ghanaian winger is a constant menace down the flank.
21 – Brandon Vázquez: €89,700/month
Vázquez is a strong, physical striker who thrives in the box. His eye for goal makes him one of Cincinnati’s most important attacking options.
20 – Evander: €97,175/month
Evander brings Brazilian flair to Portland Timbers' midfield. He's a set-piece threat and a creative spark in open play.
19 – Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting: €98,670/month
The former Bayern Munich forward now leads the line in MLS with experience and quality. Choupo-Moting remains a reliable goal-scorer.
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18 – Walker Zimmerman: €97,175/month
Zimmerman is a defensive anchor for Nashville SC. His strength in the air and leadership at the back make him a trusted figure on the team.
17 – Hugo Cuypers: €99,925/month
Cuypers has adjusted well to MLS life, regularly finding the net. The Belgian striker’s movement and finishing are his standout traits.
16 – Ryan Gauld: €100,912/month
Gauld is the engine of the Vancouver Whitecaps midfield. He mixes tireless running with smart decision-making and technical skill.
15 – Emmanuel Latte Lath: €108,728/month
Latte Lath plays with speed and purpose for Charlotte FC. He’s a direct, attacking player who constantly creates chances.
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14 – Aleksey Miranchuk: €119,600/month
Miranchuk has made an immediate impact at Atlanta United with his vision and control. He’s the kind of player who sets the rhythm in midfield.
13 – Kévin Denkey: €134,550/month
Denkey is a classic center-forward—strong, sharp, and physical. He delivers goals and creates havoc in the opposition’s box.
12 – Hany Mukhtar: €142,025/month
Mukhtar is Nashville’s creative hub, blending skill with productivity. His goals and assists have made him one of the league’s elite midfielders.
11 – Carles Gil: €149,500/month
Gil remains one of the most technical players in MLS. His passing range and ball control are key to New England Revolution’s attacking play.
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10 – Christian Benteke: €164,450/month
The former Premier League striker still dominates defenders with his size and strength. Benteke continues to be a reliable goal source.
9 – Jonathan Bamba: €373,750/month
Bamba brings speed, flair, and unpredictability to FC Cincinnati. He’s emerging as one of the most exciting new signings in the league.
8 – Riqui Puig: €382,931/month
Puig is the heartbeat of LA Galaxy’s midfield. Calm under pressure and brilliant on the ball, he dictates play with class and precision.
7 – Emil Forsberg: €404,413/month
The Swedish veteran has brought leadership and quality to New York Red Bulls. Forsberg’s vision and experience are evident in every match.
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6 – Hirving Lozano: €448,500/month
Known for his lightning pace and fearless dribbling, Lozano is a marquee signing for San Diego FC. He’s a global name delivering at a high level.
5 – Jordi Alba: €448,500/month
Alba continues to showcase world-class quality at Inter Miami. Even in the later stages of his career, he contributes on both ends of the pitch.
4 – Miguel Almirón: €453,946/month
Back in MLS, Almirón has rediscovered the form that made him a fan favorite. His dynamism and creativity have lit up the league once again.
3 – Sergio Busquets: €635,374/month
Busquets brings calm and order to Inter Miami’s midfield. He’s the tactical core of the team, reading the game like few others can.
2 – Lionel Messi: €897,000/month
Messi may be second in salary, but he’s number one in global impact. The Argentine legend continues to draw crowds, attention, and goals.
1 – Heung-min Son: €971,750/month
Son is officially the highest-paid player in MLS. With blistering speed, technical finesse, and a lethal finishing touch, the South Korean forward is earning every cent.
