Lionel Messi’s $12 million salary at Inter Miami: How does it compare to Cristiano Ronaldo’s new Al Nassr deal?

This is Cristiano Ronaldo’s new per-season salary at Al Nassr — and how it compares to Lionel Messi’s current deal with Inter Miami.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to dominate headlines even in the twilight of their careers. Messi, now fully focused on the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with Inter Miami, recently helped the club secure a place in the Round of 16 after advancing from a challenging group stage.

Up next, Messi and Inter Miami will face reigning UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint–Germain — a matchup that carries personal weight for the Argentine. The showdown marks a return to his former club, where his tenure ended on less-than-ideal terms both on and off the field.

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, comes into the summer fresh off winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal. Amid speculation about his next move, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has officially extended his contract with Al Nassr through 2027, ensuring he’ll remain in professional soccer until at least age 42.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ronaldo’s new annual salary with Al Nassr will be €200 million — totaling approximately €400 million over the full term of the deal. That figure keeps him as the highest-paid soccer player in the world by a wide margin.

In contrast, Messi earns $12 million per year with Inter Miami, according to official MLS figures. However, factoring in commercial partnerships and sponsorships, his total annual earnings could surpass $20 million. While significant, that number still falls well short of Ronaldo’s record-breaking contract.

Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: current market value comparison

According to Transfermarkt, Lionel Messi currently has an estimated market value of €18 million. That marks the lowest valuation for the Argentine since January 2006, when he was valued at €15 million early in his Barcelona career.

Back then, Messi was just 18 years old and beginning to make his mark as one of the sport’s most promising talents. By 2007, his value had surged to €40 million as he cemented his status as a global superstar.

Cristiano Ronaldo, whose current valuation sits at €12 million, has also seen a natural decline in his market worth due to age. For reference, his value in 2004 — when he was just 19 and playing for Manchester United — was approximately $18 million.

Despite that drop, Ronaldo still holds the distinction of being the most valuable player in the world over the age of 40, highlighting his enduring appeal and influence on the global game.

From: bolavip.com