In a season that continues to be full of surprises both on and off the pitch, the latest market value update from Transfermarkt has stirred conversation across Major League Soccer. With three MLS clubs—Inter Miami, Seattle Sounders, and LAFC—set to represent the league at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, player valuations are under fresh scrutiny, and not even global icons are immune to recalibration.
801 players across MLS were reassessed in the latest update, leading to some major shifts in perceived value. But none drew more attention than the league’s most high-profile name—a global superstar whose influence has stretched far beyond the sport.
Just how much is Lionel Messi worth in 2025?
Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s talisman, is no longer the most valuable player in Major League Soccer. The Argentine great has seen his market value drop by $2.2 million to $20.5 million, according to Transfermarkt. That places him joint-second in the league, tied with Atlanta United’s Emmanuel Latte Lath, whose value remains unchanged.
The top spot now belongs solely to LA Galaxy’s Riqui Puig, despite the Spaniard currently being sidelined with injury.
“Despite his age, Messi continues to perform consistently well this season,” wrote Transfermarkt. “But of course, you can’t ignore the fact that he is getting older. With a market value of €18m, he is still by far the most expensive player of his age despite his downgrade.”
Indeed, in the over-34 age group, the Argentine remains one of the world’s most valuable veterans, trailing only Antoine Griezmann and slightly ahead of Robert Lewandowski.
Inter Miami’s stumble plays a role
Messi’s individual performances have been strong, but his club’s form may have played a role in the downgrade. After an electric 2023 that saw Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup, their 2025 campaign has been more uneven. The club currently sits third in the Eastern Conference standings and recently suffered a crushing exit in the Concacaf Champions Cup, losing 5-1 on aggregate to the Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals.
The ripple effect of that disappointment has been felt throughout the squad:
- Federico Redondo dropped by $1.7 million to $5.7 million
- Luis Suarez dropped by $228,000 to $2 million
- Jordi Alba dropped by $342,000 to $1.7 million
- David Martínez dropped by $342,000 to $1.3 million
- Fafa Picault, Rocco Ríos Novo, and Leo Afonso also saw minor reductions
