Lionel Messi has stunned football fans with a shock move from MLS side Inter Miami during the ongoing summer transfer window. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner leaves PSG as a free agent but is expected to stay in Europe with FC Barcelona, his preferred destination. But the move failed due to the La Liga club's financial situation. The striker is also linked with Al Hilal and the Saudi Pro League club made an offer of £344m but he turned it down with a £43m salary at Inter Miami.
In addition to the salary, Messi will also earn money from other sources that help him move to the MLS. MLS and Apple are said to have provided Messi with a share of the profits generated by the MLS Pass streaming service on Apple TV through new subscriptions. Apple TV has also announced a four-episode documentary series about Messi, which will showcase his journey at the FIFA World Cup.
Meanwhile, Adidas (Messi's long-term sponsor) is the main sponsor of MLS and they are said to have divided with Messi a portion of the profits earned from the sale of MLS merchandise, generated since his arrival. it comes. He will also receive more than a third from Inter Miami, similar to David Beckham's breakthrough transfer to LA Galaxy during his playing days.
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr after the 2022 FIFA World Cup in the winter transfer window, is currently paid £173m per season. Of his total salary, £62m goes to playing football and the remaining £111m goes to commercial contracts and image rights. The non-football charge will also see the former Manchester United star serve as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia's bid to host the 2030 World Cup.
Messi confirmed his form when he scored a last-minute free-kick in the League Cup opener against Cruz Azul. He came on as a substitute in the second half and helped seal the 2-1 win. He then netted a brace and an assist in their next League Cup match against Atalanta United, which they won 4-0. In Inter Miami's third League Cup game, he scored twice in a 3–1 win over Orlando City.
Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has scored 14 goals in 16 Saudi Pro League appearances and has provided two assists. Prior to his arrival, Al Nassr was at the top of the club league but ended up seeing Al Ittihad take the mainstay and win the championship.
