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The Messi- Julian Alvarez pay gap: How MLS salaries compare to La Liga

The Salary Contrast in Football: Messi at the Pinnacle of the MLS, Alvarez Building His Path at Atletico Madrid.

By Ramiro Diaz

Messi and Alvarez
Messi and Alvarez

The world of football is a universe of contrasts, where established superstars coexist with young prospects looking to make a name for themselves. This disparity is inevitably reflected in the salaries they earn. A clear example of this reality can be found by comparing Lionel Messi's earnings in the MLS and Julian Alvarez's at Atletico Madrid.

Lionel Messi: An Economic Impact that Transcends Sport

Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami in the MLS has been a revolution not only in the sporting arena but also in the economic one. The Argentine star, considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time, earns an annual salary of 20 million dollars in the American league. However, this figure represents only a portion of his total income.

Thanks to an extensive network of sponsorships and commercial agreements, including world-renowned brands such as Adidas, Pepsi, and Budweiser, among others, Messi's annual income rises to an estimated 50 million dollars. This impressive amount reflects the enormous power of attraction exerted by the Rosario-born player, capable of generating an economic impact that transcends the sport itself.

Messi is not only an exceptional footballer but also a global brand. His image is synonymous with success, talent, and perseverance, values that large companies seek to associate with their products. In this way, the Argentine becomes an invaluable asset for his sponsors, who see in him a figure capable of boosting their sales and strengthening their market position.

Julian Alvarez: A Promising Present at Atletico Madrid

In contrast to the hefty figure Messi earns, we find Julian Alvarez's salary at Atletico Madrid. According to data from Fichajes.com, the young Argentine forward earns 7 million euros annually at the Colchoneros club. While this amount is considerable and represents a great achievement for a player of his age, it is far from Messi's earnings.

Alvarez, despite his youth, has already demonstrated his worth in elite football. After a successful spell at River Plate, where he was crowned champion of the Copa Libertadores, the forward joined Manchester City, where he shared a dressing room with figures like Erling Haaland. His recent transfer to Atletico Madrid represents a new challenge in his career, where he will seek to establish himself as one of the best forwards in the world.

Unlike Messi, who has already reached the pinnacle of world football and has a career full of successes, Alvarez is on the rise. His present is promising, and his future looks even brighter. However, it is important to bear in mind that he still has a long way to go to reach the global superstar status that Messi holds.

Two Realities, One Same Love for Football

The salary difference between Messi and Alvarez merely reflects the different stages that both players are going through in their careers. Messi, at the peak of his career, enjoys the rewards of a life dedicated to football, while Alvarez, with his youth and talent, is making his way in the elite with the hope of achieving his own goals.

Beyond the figures, both share the same passion: a love for football. Messi has dedicated his life to this sport, providing magical moments that will be etched in the memory of fans. Alvarez, for his part, represents the new generation of Argentine footballers, those who dream of emulating the steps of their idol and leaving their own mark on the history of football.

In short, the salary contrast between Messi and Alvarez invites us to reflect on the different realities that coexist in the world of football. While Messi enjoys a golden present, Alvarez is building his own path with the hope of achieving greatness. Two different stories, united by a passion for the most beautiful sport in the world.


Ramiro  Diaz

Ramiro Diaz

I am a sports journalist with a degree from the Institute of Communication Studies (ISEC), where I graduated in 2019. I later earned a Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences from the Argentine University of Enterprise (UADE) in 2022, equipping me with a strong academic foundation. My professional career has been driven by my lifelong passion for sports, particularly football.Since mid-2022, I have been part of Alivia Media, where I gained my first experience as a digital writer. This role h...

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