Charlotte FC's highest-paid player is delivering
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Pep Biel (right) is Charlotte FC's highest-paid player. Photo: Charlotte FC/MLS via Getty Images
Charlotte FC has a new top-paid player, according to the Major League Soccer Players Association's latest salary guide.
Why it matters: Midfielder Pep Biel is making a club-record $3.01 million in guaranteed compensation and he has the stats to back up Charlotte FC's investment.
By the numbers: Biel leads Charlotte FC with six goals in regular-season play and he's tied for second with four assists. Plus he's started all 12 regular-season matches and has played the third-most minutes (1,052).
Catch up quick: Biel joined Charlotte FC on loan in 2024 before making a permanent move earlier this year. His contract is through 2027, with an option for 2028.
- Biel is a designated player (DP), meaning he isn't subject to standard league salary cap rules.
Zoom in: Here's a breakdown of the rest of Charlotte FC's 10 highest-paid players based on guaranteed compensation and their stats so far in the regular season.
- Wilfried Zaha (DP; winger) | $2.75 million | 2 goals | 4 assists
- Liel Abada (DP; winger) | $2.6 million | 2 assists
- Luca de la Torre (midfielder) | $1.6 million | 2 assists
- Tim Ream (defender) | $1.1 million | 1 assist
- Harry Toffolo (defender) | $1.02 million | 3 assists
- Henry Kessler (defender; has been out due to injury) | $965,525
- Ashley Westwood (defender) | $833,333 | 1 goal | 5 assists
- Kristijan Kahlina (goalkeeper) | $813,750
- Idan Toklomati (forward) | $781,500 | 4 goals | 1 assist
Between the lines: Keep in mind that Zaha is on loan from Galatasaray and what the salary guide shows is only what MLS clubs are paying players. It doesn't reflect additional compensation from the club they're on loan from.
Zoom out: Charlotte FC's total guaranteed compensation compensation is $21.46 million, up from $19 million last season.
- The team's front office has repeatedly prioritized building its roster without signing expensive players, like superstar Lionel Messi. The Inter Miami star is the highest-paid player with a guaranteed compensation of $28.3 million. That's more than several clubs pay their entire team.
What's next: Charlotte hosts New York City FC Wednesday, May 13, at 7:15pm at Bank of America Stadium. Tickets start at $25.
What we're watching: Charlotte will host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium on July 29. Keep an eye out to see if/which Charlotte FC players become All-Stars.