Jul 14, 2025 - News
Joveljić is Sporting KC's highest-paid player
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Dejan Joveljić is Sporting KC's highest-paid player, according to the newly released MLS Players Association salary guide.
Why it matters: Kansas City made MLS history in February when it gave Los Angeles $4 million in exchange for the Serbian star, marking the league's first cash-for-player trade.
- The money appears to be paying off; Joveljić is KC's top scorer with 12 goals this season. Dáneil Sallói is next with 5.
Yes, but: Sporting KC is ranked No. 11 out of 15 in the Western Conference with a 6-5-10 record.
- The team began the year in last place before parting ways with its previous head coach, Peter Vermes.
- Go deeper: Sporting KC's interim coach, Kerry Zavagnin, talked to Axios about turning the team around.
Stunning stat: Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has a guaranteed compensation of $20.4 million, more than Sporting KC's top 10 earners combined.