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MLS’s Wildest Paychecks: The 25 Top Earners Ranked by Monthly Salary

MLS is spending big—and it’s not just on Messi. From rising stars to global icons, the league’s top 25 earners are pulling in serious monthly paychecks. Here’s who’s making what…

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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

dejan Joveljić
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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

Denis Bouanga
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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

Luciano Acosta
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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

Joseph Paintsil
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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

Brandon_Vazquez
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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
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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

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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

Walker Zimmerman
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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

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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

Ryan Gauld
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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

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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

Aleksey Miranchuk
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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

Kévin Denkey
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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

Hany Mukhtar
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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

Carles Gil
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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

Christian Benteke
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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

Jonathan Bamba
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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

Riqui Puig
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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

Emil Forsberg
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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

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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

Jordi Alba
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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

Miguel Almiron
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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

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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

Lionel Messi
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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

Heung-min Son
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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.

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