MLS 2024: Highest paid XI

Published at :March 17, 2024 at 5:45 PM

Modified at :March 17, 2024 at 5:45 PM

European veterans headline the roster of the top-earning MLS XI in 2024

Major League Soccer (MLS) has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once viewed as a fledgling league struggling to compete with established European leagues, MLS is now attracting global attention and top-tier talent.

The landscape of football in the United States has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, leading to a substantial surge in player wages. As a consequence of this expansion, Major League Soccer teams, while adhering to stringent salary caps, are granted the flexibility to secure up to three designated players who operate outside the confines of these strict wage regulations.

This provision allows MLS clubs to attract and retain top-tier talent, contributing to the league’s overall competitiveness and appeal. Just like the Saudi Pro League, MLS has become a league for all the players who want to establish themselves and play at the highest level with the best players from around the world.

Here’s the list of the highest-paid playing XI of the MLS 2024:

Formation: 4-2-3-1

GK: Roman Burki – $28,800 per week

Roman Burki, known for his years at Borussia Dortmund, joined St. Louis City in 2022 and became the highest-paid goalkeeper in Major League Soccer. He brought a wealth of experience to the league. Last season, Burki impressed with a save percentage of 78.5%, ranking him third-best in MLS. As St. Louis City’s highest earner, it’s clear they expect him to be a key contributor. He already has a clean sheet in only three matches that he started in the MLS.

RB: Deandre Yedlin – $15,800 per week

DeAndre Yedlin, formerly the captain of Inter Miami, recently moved to FC Cincinnati. Inter Miami’s recent influx of high-profile signings likely necessitated Yedlin’s departure to free up space in their budget. Despite the change, Yedlin appears enthusiastic about this new chapter in his career at FC Cincinnati. Yedlin is a constant attacking threat. He looks to make overlapping runs to get behind defenders and put crosses into the box for teammates.

CB: Walker Zimmerman – $34,600 per week

U.S. international Walker Zimmerman has carved out his entire professional career in Major League Soccer, establishing himself as one of the league’s highest-paid defenders. Since joining Nashville SC in 2020, he’s become a vital part of their backline. With a contract extending to 2025, Zimmerman ranks as the third-highest earner at the club, raking in a cool $1.8 million annually. Zimmerman excels as a one-on-one defender and significantly outperforms in aerial duels.

CB: Thiago Martins – $31,700 per week

Brazilian defender Thiago Martins has become a cornerstone of New York City FC‘s backline since arriving in 2022. After flourishing in Japan, he quickly established himself as a key player in New York, solidifying his place with a hefty salary. Martins’ leadership and experience are invaluable assets. Martins isn’t just a skilled defender; he’s also a vocal leader who organizes the backline and keeps his teammates composed.

LB: Jordi Alba – $19,200 per week

Alba was receiving a weekly salary of $220,000 while at Barcelona. Adhering to the stringent wage caps enforced in MLS, he has willingly accepted a significant reduction in wages to reunite with some of his former teammates. Although he no longer commands the substantial earnings he did in Europe, Alba remains the highest-paid full-back in MLS. Impressively, he has seamlessly adapted to his new environment and swiftly become a fan favourite at Chase Stadium.

CM: Hector Herrera – $91,300 per week

Houston Dynamo secured a key piece in their championship puzzle by signing Mexican midfielder Hector Herrera in 2022. Herrera instantly became the club’s highest earner, with a hefty annual salary of $4.75 million – more than double the next highest-paid player. Last season, Herrera proved his worth on the field, racking up four goals and a whopping 13 assists, a major factor in propelling the Dynamo to the playoffs. With Herrera’s leadership and talent on the pitch, coupled with the club’s commitment to winning, the Dynamo are poised for a serious run at the MLS Cup title.

CM: Mateusz Klich – $36,500 per week

Polish midfielder Mateusz Klich has surprised many by becoming a top earner in Major League Soccer. His current salary eclipses those of established European names like Sergio Busquets, Riqui Puig, and Victor Wanyama who also play in MLS. Since joining DC United in 2023, Klich has made a positive impact. He has notched 12 goals or assists in 38 appearances, proving his value on the field.

CAM: Xherdan Shaqiri – $141,300 per week

Xherdan Shaqiri has become a fan favourite at Chicago Fire since joining them in 2022 with a lucrative contract. The Swiss maestro has thrilled audiences with his dazzling footwork and knack for scoring. In just 66 appearances, he’s already amassed a remarkable 27 goals or assists, showcasing his undeniable impact on the team. Shaqiri is still known to unleash the occasional wonder goal, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

RW: Lionel Messi – $230,700 per week

Lionel Messi reigns supreme as Major League Soccer’s highest earner, pulling in a staggering $230,700 per week – and that’s just his base salary; bonuses, brand deals, and other income streams, and his earnings soar even higher.

But Messi’s value goes far beyond the price tag. Since his arrival last year, he’s revolutionized MLS. His on-field brilliance is undeniable, but his impact extends far beyond the pitch. Messi’s star power has attracted a global audience, turning MLS into a must-watch league. The diminutive Argentine deserves credit for captivating fans worldwide and injecting excitement into the American soccer scene.

ST: Christian Benteke – $81,700 per week

Christian Benteke’s finishing touch seemed to have deserted him towards the end of his Crystal Palace stint. However, since joining DC United in 2022, he’s spectacularly rediscovered his scoring boots.

The powerful Belgian forward has netted 18 goals in just 39 appearances for his new club, further underlining his resurgence with a recent hat-trick against New England. At $81,700 a week, DC United are certainly getting their money’s worth with Benteke’s consistent goal production.

LW: Lorenzo Insigne – $144,200 per week

Toronto FC’s Lorenzo Insigne is justifying his hefty salary with a scorching run of form. The 32-year-old Italian winger has bagged two goals in his last two matches, leaving opposing defences frustrated and fans excited. Given his status as the league’s second-highest earner, this kind of consistent scoring is exactly what Toronto expects from their star player.

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