Former Flying Eagles midfielder Obinna Nwobodo continues to be the highest earning Nigerian player in Major League Soccer MLS, according to the latest figures released by the league’s players’ union. Nwobodo, formerly of Enugu Rangers, is guaranteed an annual salary of $1,440,400 playing for FC Cincinnati.
Following him on the salary chart is Sam Adekugbe of Vancouver Whitecaps, earning $913,000 per year, and Toronto FC’s Ayo Akinola, who makes $846,875 annually. Former Mighty Jets striker Willy Agada, now with Sporting Kansas, earns a guaranteed $521,875 annually.
Another former Flying Eagles player, Ibrahim Aliyu ‘Bravo,’ has seen his salary rise to $501,379 from last year’s $474,383. Ibrahim Sunusi, capped by both the Super Eagles and CHAN Eagles, receives $410,000 per year, while his CF Montreal teammate Chinonso Offor earns $287,879 annually. Minnesota United’s new scoring sensation Tani Oluwaseyi earns $89,716 per year.
At the top of the MLS salary rankings is Lionel Messi, with a guaranteed annual salary of $20.4 million. Other high earners include Lorenzo Insigne at $15.4 million, Sergio Busquets at $8.8 million, and Xherdan Shaqiri at $8.2 million.
Editorial
The salary figures released by the MLS players’ union highlight the significant financial strides Nigerian players are making in the league. Leading the pack is Obinna Nwobodo, whose earnings reflect his value and impact at FC Cincinnati. His success story is an inspiration to many young Nigerian footballers aspiring to make it big on the international stage.
The impressive salaries of players like Sam Adekugbe and Ayo Akinola further emphasize the growing influence of Nigerian talent in MLS. These players have not only proven their worth on the field but have also become valuable assets to their respective clubs.
For the Nigerian football community, these figures are a testament to the quality of players being produced. The financial rewards these players are receiving are indicative of their hard work, dedication, and the high standards they maintain. It also underscores the importance of nurturing talent through proper development programs and providing young players with the necessary support to excel.
The rise in Ibrahim Aliyu’s salary from last year reflects his growing importance and performance improvements. This upward trajectory is a positive sign for his future prospects and for Nigerian football. As MLS continues to attract global superstars like Lionel Messi, the league’s competitive environment becomes more challenging and rewarding.
Nigerian players competing at this level gain invaluable experience and exposure, which can significantly benefit the national team. The success of Nigerian players in MLS should also encourage other leagues to scout talent from Nigeria, recognizing the potential and skills that these players bring. For the players, maintaining their form and continually improving will be crucial in securing their place and commanding higher salaries.
Did You Know?
- Obinna Nwobodo played for Enugu Rangers before moving to MLS, where he now earns $1,440,400 annually with FC Cincinnati.
- Lionel Messi is the highest paid player in MLS, with a guaranteed annual salary of $20.4 million.
- The MLS players’ union regularly releases salary figures, providing transparency and insights into player earnings.
- Nigerian players like Sam Adekugbe and Ayo Akinola are among the top earners in their respective MLS clubs.
- The rise in salaries for players like Ibrahim Aliyu indicates the growing recognition and value of Nigerian talent in international football.
