Cristiano Ronaldo- $260 million USD
Ronaldo has transitioned to competing for Saudi Arabia subsequent to his departure from Manchester United, where he has played a pivotal role in the advancement of Saudi Arabian football. He stands as the trailblazer for a wave of superstar athletes joining the nation’s football teams, thus rightfully earning substantial financial rewards.
His contributions have facilitated the promotion of Saudi Arabia on the global stage through the medium of sports, leveraging his status as a five-time Ballon d’Or winner. This has been achieved through strategic utilization of social media platforms such as Instagram, as well as endorsement deals with brands like Herbalife.
Lionel Messi –$135 milion USD
The sole player listed among World Cup champions earns more money off the pitch than on it. The Argentine player has captivated audiences in the United States since joining Inter Miami to bolster the development of the MLS.
Despite transitioning to a league of lesser stature, financially and in terms of prestige, this move represents a shrewd decision. Signing with Inter Miami will enable Messi to acquire a share of revenue from Apple and Adidas. He also pockets a significant sum from Apple TV, which released a documentary about Messi upon his arrival at Inter Miami.
Neymar – $112 milion USD
There was a time when Neymar was paid a considerable salary by PSG, yet this superstar did not have a fulfilled career in Ligue 1. Many opinions suggest that Neymar departed Europe prematurely, squandering his talent, but Neymar chose to follow in Ronaldo’s footsteps and is currently playing for Al Hilal.
Presently, he is sidelined due to a serious injury, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season, during which Al Hilal leads the Saudi Pro League standings. Additionally, Neymar has entered partnerships with Puma, Konami, and Red Bull, and most recently announced collaboration with the horse breeding farm Team Campline from Portugal.
Kylian Mbappe – $ 110 milion USD
Originally the highest-paid player in Europe upon signing a contract with PSG in 2022, he has received a substantial bonus for extending his contract with the club until the summer of this year. PSG has consistently affirmed his role as the flagship of the club’s new project, asserting his dominance in the French sporting arena.
Karim Benzema – $106 milion USD
The decision of the French forward to depart Real Madrid for Saudi Arabia comes as a significant surprise, indicating Benzema’s allure towards the Saudi Pro League among numerous top-tier athletes. Presently, he is donning the jersey of the reigning Saudi Arabian champions, Al Ittihad. Despite his inability to meet the club’s expectations, there is speculation suggesting his waning enthusiasm for Al Ittihad.
Erling Haaland – $58 milion USD
The debut season of Cú, the historical goal scorer for Manchester City, has shattered numerous records in both goal-scoring and salary earnings, reflecting his outstanding performance. Alongside Mbappé, he stands as one of the hottest superstars in the football world, albeit earning less than PSG players.
The Manchester City leadership is prepared to negotiate a new agreement with the aim of retaining Haaland’s services for an extended period. Additionally, he has secured a lucrative contract with Nike and featured prominently on the cover of the EA Sports FC 2024 video game.
Mo Salah – $53 milion USD
With a substantial sum transferred to Mo Salah from Liverpool last summer, facilitated by Saudi Arabia, Salah has opted to remain with The Kop this season. However, the prospect of Salah moving to the Middle East remains a possibility in the future.
As an icon within the Muslim community, Salah’s endorsement deal with Adidas has afforded him a considerable sum. Additionally, his presence has been recognized in publications such as GQ and Time, where he is listed as one of the most influential figures globally.