The 10 Highest Paid Soccer Players in the World: 2024 Editio
In the world of soccer, talent, fame, and dedication culminate in substantial financial rewards. Top soccer players are not only compensated for their abilities on the field but also for their marketability off the field. This article explores the top 10 highest-paid soccer players in 2024, highlighting their earnings, endorsement deals, and global influence.
The financial rankings for these athletes take into account both their salaries and commercial endorsements, making them global icons with lucrative contracts from clubs and sponsorships from leading brands.
1. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
- Total Earnings: $125 million (2024)
- Salary: $85 million
- Endorsements: $40 million
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Kylian Mbappé burst onto the world stage during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he helped France lift the trophy and was named the tournament’s Best Young Player. Since then, Mbappé has become synonymous with speed, technical prowess, and goal-scoring efficiency.
Contract with PSG
In 2022, Mbappé renewed his contract with Paris Saint-Germain in a landmark deal that made him the highest-paid footballer at the time. The deal included unprecedented salary figures, performance bonuses, and a say in the club’s sporting decisions.
Endorsements and Marketability
Off the pitch, Mbappé has partnerships with brands like Nike, Hublot, and EA Sports, which contribute significantly to his overall income. He has also become a social media sensation, with millions of followers across various platforms, enhancing his marketability.
Legacy and Future
With his current trajectory, Mbappé is set to dominate soccer for years to come. His mix of raw talent, leadership, and commercial appeal makes him a leading figure in the sport’s future.
2. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
- Total Earnings: $110 million
- Salary: $65 million
- Endorsements: $45 million
A Legendary Career
Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest soccer player of all time, transferred to Inter Miami in 2023 after a stint with Paris Saint-Germain. Messi’s career is unparalleled, having won multiple Ballon d’Or awards, La Liga titles, and Champions League trophies with Barcelona.
Inter Miami Contract
The move to the United States signaled a new chapter in Messi’s career. His contract with Inter Miami includes a hefty salary, revenue-sharing agreements, and partnerships with MLS stakeholders. His arrival has had a transformative impact on the popularity of soccer in the U.S.
Endorsements
Messi has long-standing deals with global brands like Adidas, Pepsi, and Budweiser. His lifetime contract with Adidas alone is worth millions annually. Messi also ventured into the NFT space and became the face of several tech companies.
Global Icon
Messi’s influence extends beyond soccer. His quiet, family-oriented persona resonates with fans across the globe. His every move, both on and off the field, generates headlines, and he remains one of the sport’s most marketable players.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
- Total Earnings: $105 million
- Salary: $75 million
- Endorsements: $30 million
Iconic Status
Cristiano Ronaldo has built an empire on his name, which has transcended soccer. With a glittering career that has seen him win numerous individual and team awards, Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia in 2023 in a highly publicized move.
Move to Al-Nassr
The Saudi Pro League has made headlines for attracting top talent, and Ronaldo’s deal is reportedly one of the most lucrative in history. The contract is worth millions annually, including performance bonuses and image rights. Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia signified the global shift in the sport’s financial landscape.
Endorsement Deals
Ronaldo is one of the most marketable athletes globally, with a wide range of endorsements, including Nike, Herbalife, and Clear. His lifetime contract with Nike alone is worth over $1 billion, cementing his place as a commercial juggernaut.
Social Media King
With over 500 million followers on Instagram, Ronaldo is the most followed athlete in the world. His social media presence is a revenue stream, as brands regularly collaborate with him for paid partnerships.
4. Neymar Jr. (Al-Hilal)
- Total Earnings: $100 million
- Salary: $70 million
- Endorsements: $30 million
Early Stardom and Career Moves
Neymar has been a global superstar since his early days at Santos FC in Brazil. His record-breaking transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 made headlines as the most expensive in soccer history. In 2023, Neymar transferred to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Move and Contract
Neymar’s transfer to Al-Hilal came with an eye-watering salary package, making him one of the highest-paid players globally. His decision to move to the Saudi Pro League has drawn significant attention, further raising the league’s profile.
Endorsements
Neymar’s flamboyant personality and marketability have earned him lucrative deals with Puma, Red Bull, and other major brands. Neymar also engages with millions of fans through gaming and music, which expands his brand beyond soccer.
Off-Field Ventures
A prominent figure in pop culture, Neymar is known for his love of fashion, gaming, and music. His social media influence, combined with his on-field skills, keeps him at the top of football’s commercial rankings.
5. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
- Total Earnings: $90 million
- Salary: $65 million
- Endorsements: $25 million
Rapid Rise to the Top
Erling Haaland’s rise has been meteoric. The Norwegian forward, who joined Manchester City in 2022, became the Premier League’s leading goal scorer and helped the club secure numerous titles, including the Champions League.
Contract and Bonuses
Haaland’s contract with Manchester City includes massive goal-scoring bonuses and sponsorship deals. His performance on the field has led to a contract extension, making him one of the top earners in European football.
Endorsements
Haaland’s commercial appeal is growing, with partnerships with Adidas, Hyperice, and several tech companies. His goal-scoring record makes him a fan favorite, and he has signed lucrative deals with brands that capitalize on his rising popularity.
Future Potential
At just 24 years old, Haaland is seen as a future Ballon d’Or contender. His consistent performances and marketability make him a valuable asset to both his club and sponsors.
6. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
- Total Earnings: $80 million
- Salary: $55 million
- Endorsements: $25 million
From Egypt to Global Stardom
Mohamed Salah is a global icon, not just in soccer but as a symbol of hope and success for millions of fans in Egypt and the Arab world. He is known for his incredible work rate, goal-scoring ability, and humble demeanor.
Contract with Liverpool
Salah signed a contract extension with Liverpool in 2022, making him the highest-paid player in the club’s history. His salary, combined with performance bonuses, has seen him cement his place as one of the top earners in the Premier League.
Endorsements and Philanthropy
Salah’s endorsement portfolio includes partnerships with Adidas, Pepsi, and Vodafone. Salah’s off-field activities are also notable, as he is heavily involved in philanthropy and community work in his home country of Egypt.
Cultural Icon
Salah’s influence transcends sports. He is a role model for millions of young fans, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. His ability to balance success with humility has made him a beloved figure both in soccer and beyond.
7. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
- Total Earnings: $75 million
- Salary: $55 million
- Endorsements: $20 million
A Goal-Scoring Machine
Robert Lewandowski has consistently been one of the best strikers in world football. His move from Bayern Munich to Barcelona in 2022 marked a significant shift in his career, but his goal-scoring abilities remain undiminished.
Contract with Barcelona
Lewandowski’s contract at Barcelona includes a high salary and performance-related bonuses. His consistent goal-scoring record has justified his earnings, and he remains one of the top earners in La Liga.
Endorsements
Lewandowski’s endorsement deals include partnerships with Nike, Huawei, and several Polish brands. He is also involved in various business ventures, which contribute to his wealth.
A Polish Icon
Lewandowski is a national hero in Poland and is widely respected across Europe. His professionalism and longevity in the game have made him a role model for young players.
8. Kevin De Bruyne
- Club: Manchester City
- Country: Belgium
- Estimated Annual Earnings: $55 million
- Endorsements: Nike, EA Sports, Credit Karma
Kevin De Bruyne is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world. His vision, passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game have been instrumental in Manchester City’s dominance in the Premier League. De Bruyne’s salary reflects his importance to the club, and his endorsement deals with Nike, EA Sports, and Credit Karma contribute to his overall earnings.
De Bruyne has won multiple Premier League titles and has been named PFA Player of the Year. His calm demeanor and consistency on the field have earned him the respect of fans and players alike.
9. Paul Pogba
- Club: Juventus
- Country: France
- Estimated Annual Earnings: $50 million
- Endorsements: Adidas, Pepsi, TCL
Paul Pogba’s return to Juventus from Manchester United in 2022 brought renewed focus on his career. Known for his creativity, flair, and athleticism, Pogba remains one of the top-earning players in the world, with a significant portion of his income coming from endorsements with Adidas, Pepsi, and TCL.
Pogba’s global appeal is rooted in his unique personality, fashion sense, and off-field interests, making him one of the most marketable football players. Despite injuries that have hampered his playing time, his brand remains strong.
10. Gareth Bale
- Club: Retired (former Real Madrid, LAFC)
- Country: Wales
- Estimated Annual Earnings: $45 million
- Endorsements: Adidas, BT Sport, EA Sports
Although Gareth Bale retired from professional football in 2023, his impact on the game and his earning potential remain significant. During his career, Bale was known for his incredible pace, powerful shot, and ability to deliver in crucial moments, particularly for Real Madrid, where he won multiple Champions League titles.
Bale’s endorsement deals with Adidas, BT Sport, and EA Sports have continued post-retirement, and his passion for golf and other ventures have kept him in the public eye. Despite stepping away from football, Bale remains one of the wealthiest athletes.
Top 10 Highest Paid Soccer Players in the PSL for 2024