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Over the past 15 years, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have seen their earnings skyrocket, from their humble beginnings to becoming the highest-paid footballers in the world and in this article, we will take a closer look at the evolution of their salaries, tracing their journey from their first payslips to their current status as global icons.
Messi: Rising from Barcelona’s Youth Academy
Messi’s incredible football journey began at a young age in Barcelona’s youth academy.
As a budding talent, Messi earned a meager €600 (£516) per month, equivalent to just over £6000 per annum.
However, it didn’t take long for his talent to shine through, and once he signed his first professional deal with Barcelona, his wages skyrocketed to €3 million a year (£2.6 million).
This significant increase reflected Messi’s rapid rise to stardom and the club’s recognition of his immense potential.
Ronaldo: From Sporting to Manchester United
Ronaldo’s early career took shape at Sporting CP in Portugal.
When he signed his initial professional contract with Sporting, Ronaldo’s annual salary was €1 million (£860,000).
However, it was his transfer to Manchester United in 2003 that marked a turning point in his financial trajectory.
After securing the move, Ronaldo’s salary more than doubled to £35,000 per week, equivalent to £1.82 million per year.
This substantial increase in wages showed the faith that Manchester United had in Ronaldo’s abilities and set the stage for his future success.
Messi and Ronaldo: A Continual Increase in Earnings
Since their early days, both Messi and Ronaldo have witnessed a continual increase in their earnings and as their careers flourished, so did their payslips.
According to Forbes, Ronaldo’s net worth is currently estimated at $136 million (£107 million), while Messi’s is valued at $130 million (£102 million).
These staggering figures show the immense financial rewards that come with being at the top of the sport.
Messi’s Move to Inter Miami and Ronaldo’s Transfer to Al Nassr
In recent years, both Messi and Ronaldo have embarked on new chapters in their careers.
Ronaldo made a high-profile move to the Saudi Pro League, joining Al Nassr.
His three-year contract with the club is valued at over €200 million (£172 million).
This lucrative deal not only shows Ronaldo’s continued marketability but also highlights the growing influence of Middle Eastern football.
Meanwhile, Messi made headlines with his move to Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS).
Spanish publication Marca reported that Messi earns approximately £43 million annually in Miami, making him the highest-paid player in the MLS.
This move not only solidifies Messi’s status as a global superstar but also opens up new avenues for football’s expansion in the United States.
Messi and Ronaldo: A Legacy of Success
Aside from their astronomical salaries, Messi and Ronaldo’s success on the pitch cannot be understated.
Collectively, they have won an incredible 13 Ballon d’Or awards (eight for Messi and five for Ronaldo).
Their individual awards and numerous domestic and international titles have solidified their places among the greatest footballers of all time.
The Last Showdown
As their careers enter the twilight years, football fans eagerly await the last showdown between Messi and Ronaldo.
Al Nassr and Inter Miami are scheduled to face each other on February 1 in Riyadh.
This potentially final encounter between the two legends will undoubtedly be a fitting climax of their remarkable journeys.
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