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The kingdom without Messi: The 10 footballers who dominate salaries in 2025

A New Generation of High Earners: Who Leads the Pack in 2025?.

By Ramiro Diaz

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi
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Football, more than just a sport, has become a global industry generating billions of euros. Within this universe of talent and spectacle, elite footballers not only dazzle with their on-pitch magic but also amass fortunes that place them among the highest-paid athletes on the planet. According to data from TOP Mercato Latam, the year 2025 presents a fascinating ranking of the 10 players with the highest earnings, revealing a landscape where experience, talent, and marketing combine to create astronomical figures.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Reign Continues (€202.8 million)

Despite the passage of time, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to top the list of the highest-paid footballers. His move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia not only marked a new chapter in his career but also an unprecedented financial agreement. With €202.8 million annually, CR7 demonstrates that his brand transcends the sporting realm, becoming a true global icon. This contract not only includes his salary as a player but also lucrative advertising deals and other income that solidify his position as the king of football marketing. His presence in Saudi Arabia has given a huge boost to the league and has focused global attention on football in that country.

Neymar Jr: The Samba that Captivates Sponsors (€104.5 million)

Neymar Jr. occupies second place on this exclusive list, with earnings amounting to €104.5 million per year. His undeniable talent, charisma, and connection with the public make him a magnet for brands. Like Cristiano, Neymar has found a new destination in Saudi Arabia to continue his career and increase his wealth. His ability to generate spectacle both on and off the pitch keeps him as one of the most sought-after footballers in the world.

Karim Benzema: The Consecration of an Elite Goalscorer (€98.3 million)

Karim Benzema, after a brilliant career at Real Madrid, joins the Saudi league with a contract of €98.3 million annually. His Ballon d'Or win in 2022 cemented his status as one of the best strikers in the world, and his arrival in Saudi Arabia represents recognition of his talent and professionalism. Benzema brings experience, leadership, and, above all, goals, making him a key player for his new team and a valuable asset for brands.

The Premier League Quartet and the Rise of Saudi Arabian Football

The following positions in the ranking reveal an interesting dynamic: the economic power of the Premier League is being challenged by the rise of Saudi Arabian football. Riyad Mahrez (€53.2 million), Sadio Mane (€41.4 million), Kalidou Koulibaly (€35.5 million), and Harry Kane (€24.8 million) represent the presence of English football on this list, while the Saudi league consolidates its position as an attractive destination for big names.

Riyad Mahrez: The Algerian Magician in the League of Stars (€53.2 million)

Riyad Mahrez, with his dribbling ability and vision, has become one of the most exciting players in modern football. His move to Saudi Arabia for €53.2 million annually demonstrates the league's commitment to talent and entertainment.

Sadio Mane: The African Lion Roars in Arabia (€41.4 million)

Sadio Mane, a player with a great track record in European football, has also chosen to continue his career in Saudi Arabia, earning €41.4 million a year. His speed, power, and commitment make him a very valuable player for any team.

Kalidou Koulibaly: The Senegalese Wall with a Millionaire Contract (€35.5 million)

Kalidou Koulibaly, renowned for his defensive solidity and leadership, joins the constellation of stars shining in Saudi Arabia. His salary of €35.5 million reflects the value placed on elite defenders in today's football.

The European Trio: Lewandowski, Mbappe, and Haaland (€33 million, €30.7 million, and €30.7 million respectively)

Robert Lewandowski, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland represent the presence of traditional European football in this ranking. While their salaries are very high, they are lower than the figures handled in Saudi Arabia.

Robert Lewandowski: The Relentless Goalscorer Who Defies Time (€33 million)

Robert Lewandowski, despite his age, continues to demonstrate his goalscoring ability at Barcelona. His contract of €33 million annually keeps him among the highest earners, showcasing his continued relevance and importance in modern football.

Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland: The Future of Football with Star Earnings (€30.7 million each)

Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, considered the great promises of world football, share eighth and ninth place with a salary of €30.7 million annually each. Their youth, talent, and potential make them players with a brilliant future and great appeal for brands.

Harry Kane: The England Captain Closes the Top 10 (€24.8 million)

Harry Kane, a historic goalscorer in the Premier League, closes this ranking with a salary of €24.8 million. His quality and leadership keep him as one of the most valued strikers in the world.

Conclusion: A World of Astonishing Figures

This ranking of the world's top 10 highest-paid footballers in 2025 offers a perspective on the economic power surrounding elite football. The figures are astonishing and reflect the importance these players have for their clubs and for brands. The rise of Saudi Arabian football has burst onto the scene, attracting big names with millionaire contracts and generating a new order in the global football salary landscape. This phenomenon invites us to reflect on the future of the sport and the role that different leagues will play in the competition to attract the best talent.


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