- Lionel Messi:
- Messi, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, has consistently been among the highest earners. In 2021, Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after leaving Barcelona. His salary and endorsement deals contribute significantly to his overall earnings.
- Cristiano Ronaldo:
- Ronaldo, another football legend, has been one of the highest-paid players for years. In 2018, Ronaldo transferred from Real Madrid to Juventus. He returned to Manchester United in 2021. Like Messi, his earnings come from both his playing contract and numerous lucrative endorsement deals.
- Neymar Jr.:
- Neymar, the Brazilian forward, joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017 in a record-breaking transfer. His combination of skill and marketability has led to substantial earnings, with a significant portion coming from his PSG salary and various endorsements.
- Kylian Mbappé:
- The French forward, often hailed as one of the brightest young talents, plays alongside Neymar at PSG. His performances on the pitch and marketability have contributed to a high salary and endorsement deals, making him one of the top earners in football.
- Lionel Messi:
- Mohamed Salah:
- The Egyptian forward has been a crucial part of Liverpool’s success in recent years. Salah’s goal-scoring exploits and popularity have led to an increase in both his playing contract and endorsement deals.
- Andrés Iniesta:
- Iniesta, a Spanish midfielder, moved to Japanese club Vissel Kobe in 2018. While playing in Asia may not bring the same level of attention as European leagues, Iniesta’s brand and legacy have ensured a steady stream of endorsements, contributing to his overall earnings.
- Gareth Bale:
- The Welsh forward, known for his time at Real Madrid, returned to Tottenham Hotspur in 2020. Bale’s earnings include a substantial salary and various endorsements, making him one of the highest-paid footballers.
- Antoine Griezmann:
- The French forward has played for Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. Griezmann’s skill on the pitch and marketability have resulted in a significant income from both his playing contract and endorsements.
- Paul Pogba:
- The French midfielder has been a key player for Manchester United. Pogba’s performances on the field and his marketable personality contribute to a high salary and numerous endorsement deals.
- Kevin De Bruyne:
- The Belgian midfielder has been a standout performer for Manchester City. De Bruyne’s skill and versatility on the pitch have led to an increase in his playing contract, and he has also secured endorsement deals with various brands.
Footballers’ earnings are influenced by their playing contracts, performance bonuses, and off-field endeavors such as endorsements and sponsorships. These rankings can change with new contracts, transfers, and adjustments in endorsement deals. For the latest and most detailed information, it’s recommended to check the latest sources and reports on football player earnings.