Set to Pay $20,350,000 in US Federal Taxes, Lionel Messi’s Post-Retirement Life Compared to Michael Jordan and David Beckham

All thanks to his magic on the soccer ground, Lionel Messi has earned legendary status in sports. His accolades and records are a testament to that. His skillful display has left an indelible mark. However, as the Argentine is approaching the twilight of his career, he will potentially play club soccer for the last time with MLS club Inter Miami. 

But do you know the Inter Miami deal will open impressive off-field endeavors for Messi in the future? And that’s what Miami’s co-owner reiterated recently. Moreover, Jorge Mas compared Messi’s post-retirement life to that of David Beckham and Michael Jordan.

Future avenues await soccer legend Lionel Messi

The Argentine was in no mood to create drama around his transfer this summer. When he realized FC Barcelona’s move was nearly impossible, he decided to join Inter Miami. But a question arose after his decision: why he snubbed a billion-dollar Saudi deal? As the days went by, reports revealed the details of the contract.

Apart from salary and bonuses, Messi will also earn from other variables. The Argentine will get a share from the profits of MLS season passes Apple TV will sell after his arrival. He will get a share from the profits of Adidas on the jerseys of the Argentine sold. Moreover, Joe Pompliano (sports finances expert) believes the former PSG superstar will get to buy stakes in Inter Miami at a discounted price.

And that’s what The Herons’ co-owner Jorge Mas recently suggested. While speaking to Spanish outlet El Pais, Mas compared the post-retirement life of Messi to that of David Beckham and NBA great Michael Jordan. He indicated that Messi would enter sports team ownership like Beckham and Jordan. 

READ MORE: With David Beckham’s Billion-Dollar Project in Place, Lionel Messi Could Make His Inter Miami Debut at $4.6 Billion NFL Side’s Home Ground

Mas said, “I imagine a life after soccer for Messi very similar to that of David [Beckham] or Michael Jordan. He will be able to continue his work in a market that will not stop growing. He will have opportunities that are not available elsewhere.” The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will earn $55 million in salaries and bonuses, per Jorge Mas. But of this $55 million, how much will go into taxes?

A tax breakup of Messi’s salary:

$55 million isn’t only the salary of Messi, as it includes a signing bonus and equity. However, like other nations, the Argentine is liable for taxes in the US. According to another American financial expert, Andrew Petcash, $20.35 million of Messi’s income will go to Federal Tax. 

Apart from Federal Taxes, Messi will pay $1.64 million Jock Tax and $1.29 million FICA/Medicare Tax. However, as he will be in Florida, which doesn’t charge any taxes on foreigners’ income, the former Barcelona talisman is liable to $0 Florida Tax. Moreover, he will pay $0 on Agent Fees as his father is his agent. It brings Messi’s net earnings to $31.7 million.

WATCH THIS STORY: American Athletes With Ownership in Soccer Teams

Do you think the Inter Miami deal has the potential of earning more than what Al Hilal offered?