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Elite football is a spectacle that transcends sport and becomes a social and economic phenomenon. Great players, like Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi, are figures who inspire millions of fans worldwide and generate astronomical incomes for their clubs and sponsors. However, despite their superstar status, their salaries can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the club they play for, sponsorship deals, and image rights. In this article, we will analyse the salaries of Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi, two of the most influential footballers on the planet, to better understand the economic dynamics that govern elite football.

Neymar Jr.: A Return Home with a Reduced but Lucrative Salary

Neymar Jr.'s return to Santos in Brazil has been one of the most significant news stories of the transfer market. The Brazilian star, who shone in European and Arab football, has decided to return to his roots to play for the club where he was born as a professional footballer. However, this return has not been solely for love of the shirt. Neymar Jr. has signed a contract that guarantees him multi-million dollar earnings, although less than he received in Saudi Arabia.

According to information provided by journalist Paulo Vinicius Coelho on the UOL Esporte website, Neymar Jr.'s new salary agreement with Santos is structured in two main components: a fixed monthly remuneration of one million reais (equivalent to about 171 thousand US dollars) and a percentage ranging between 80 and 90% of the income generated by his image rights. This last clause is essential, as it will allow Neymar Jr. to receive at least one million dollars monthly, a figure that could even be higher depending on the profits derived from the commercial exploitation of his image.

Despite the fact that Neymar Jr.'s remuneration at Santos is considerable, it does not compare to the more than 100 million dollars annually he earned in Saudi Arabia. This demonstrates that the Brazilian player has prioritised his desire to return home and play for the club of his affections, even at the cost of a significant reduction in his income.

Lionel Messi: A Star Salary in the MLS Driven by Sponsorships

Lionel Messi, the Argentine star who has conquered every possible title in European football, has taken a new direction in his career by signing for Inter Miami CF of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. His arrival in the American league has generated great excitement and has revolutionised the world of football.

According to various sources, Lionel Messi's salary at Inter Miami CF is 20 million dollars annually. While this figure is impressive, it does not reflect the entirety of his earnings. Thanks to his sponsorship deals with brands such as Adidas, Apple, and Budweiser, Messi receives around 50 million dollars per year, far surpassing Neymar Jr. and becoming one of the highest-paid players in the world.

Messi's ability to generate income through sponsorships is a reflection of his media impact and his popularity on a global level. His image transcends the sporting aspect and has become a symbol of success and overcoming challenges, which makes him a very valuable asset for commercial brands.

Salary Comparison: Two Different Models

The comparison between the salaries of Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi reveals two different models of economic management in elite football. Neymar Jr. has opted for a more modest salary at Santos, but with the possibility of increasing his income through image rights. Messi, on the other hand, has opted for a high base salary in the MLS, but supplemented by sponsorships that double his earnings.

Both models are valid and demonstrate that elite footballers have several options to maximise their income. The choice of one model or another will depend on their priorities and professional goals.

Football: A Business of Exorbitant Figures

The cases of Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi are just two examples of the astronomical salaries handled in elite football. These figures, which may seem exorbitant to the average person, reflect the magnitude of the business surrounding this sport.

Football has become a global industry that generates billions of dollars a year. Clubs, sponsors, the media, and fans all contribute to feeding this machine that moves passions and fortunes.

Beyond Money: The Passion for Football

Despite the astronomical figures handled by elite footballers, it is important to remember that football is, above all, a sport that arouses passions and emotions in millions of people around the world. Beyond money, football players are people who love what they do and who give their all on the field.

In the case of Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi, their love for football has led them to make important decisions in their careers. Neymar Jr. has returned to his home country to play for the club of his affections, while Messi has accepted the challenge of playing in the MLS and continuing to compete at the highest level.

Conclusion

The world of footballer salaries reflects the magnitude of the business surrounding professional football. The multi-million dollar contracts of players like Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi are a testament to this. However, beyond money, football is a sport that is lived with passion and that gives us unforgettable moments.