Football is more than just a game—it’s a global business. And at the heart of this business are the world’s top footballers, earning jaw-dropping sums both on and off the pitch.
From Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking salary in Saudi Arabia to Lionel Messi’s enormous endorsement deals in Miami, the figures are staggering. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 highest-paid footballers in the world in 2024, featuring stars from across the globe.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – £219.1 Million
Cristiano Ronaldo is undoubtedly the king of football earnings in 2024, earning more than twice as much as anyone else.
His move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2022 secured him an eye-watering salary of £169.1 million. His off-field income is just as impressive, pulling in an additional £50 million from endorsements and business ventures.
While Ronaldo has long maintained that money isn’t his main motivation, the staggering size of his paycheck ensures that both he and his family will live comfortably for generations. As football’s highest earner, Ronaldo continues to make history, both in the sport and financially.
2. Lionel Messi – £103.8 Million
Lionel Messi has always been at the top of the football food chain, and his earnings reflect that. In 2024, the Argentine superstar earned £46.1 million from his salary at Inter Miami.
However, Messi’s real income booster comes from his off-field activities, where he rakes in a staggering £57.7 million.
His endorsement deals with companies like Adidas and Pepsi, along with his collaboration with Apple as part of his move to the United States, have made him one of the richest athletes in the world.
Messi’s influence in global football is undeniable, and his switch to Major League Soccer has expanded his brand to new heights, particularly in North America.
3. Neymar – £84.6 Million
Brazilian star Neymar continues to earn top dollar despite spending much of 2024 on the sidelines due to a severe injury.
His club salary from Al Hilal stands at £61.5 million, while his off-field ventures bring in an additional £23.1 million.
Though Neymar has had limited time on the pitch since moving to Saudi Arabia, his value off the pitch remains sky-high, making him one of the wealthiest footballers of the year.
4. Karim Benzema – £80 Million
Karim Benzema joined Al Ittihad as the reigning Ballon d’Or holder, with a salary of £76.9 million. Despite rumors of dissatisfaction at the club, his contract pays him a staggering £1.5 million per week.
Even though Benzema’s time in Saudi Arabia has been fraught with challenges, the financial rewards have more than made up for it, keeping him comfortably in the top five of football’s highest earners.
5. Kylian Mbappe – £69.2 Million
Kylian Mbappe, the golden boy of French football, earned £53.8 million from his much-anticipated move to Real Madrid in 2024.
While his on-field salary is impressive, Mbappe also earns £15.4 million from endorsement deals, adding to his significant income. Though he accepted a slight pay cut to join Madrid from PSG, Mbappe’s earnings remain among the highest in the world.
6. Erling Haaland – £46.2 Million
Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland’s meteoric rise in football has also led to a rise in his earnings. In 2024, the Manchester City striker earned £35.4 million from his club salary, with an additional £10.8 million coming from off-field activities.
Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Haaland is now also known for his impressive financial portfolio, becoming one of the Premier League’s best-paid players.
7. Vinicius Junior – £42.3 Million
Vinicius Junior’s journey from being one of Real Madrid’s lowest-paid players to one of the highest-paid footballers in the world is nothing short of remarkable.
In 2024, he earned £30.8 million from his salary at Real Madrid and £11.5 million from sponsorship deals. His consistent performances and growing global brand have propelled him into the upper echelon of football’s richest players.
8. Mohamed Salah – £40.7 Million
Mohamed Salah, one of the Premier League’s biggest stars, earned £26.9 million from his salary at Liverpool in 2024.
However, it’s his off-field earnings that set him apart, with a total of £13.8 million coming from endorsements.
Salah’s appeal stretches far beyond football, with his image featured in major global advertising campaigns, making him one of the world’s most marketable athletes.
9. Sadio Mane – £40 Million
Sadio Mane’s move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr significantly boosted his salary, with the Senegalese forward earning £36.9 million in 2024.
Mane has also maintained a healthy income from off-field ventures, earning £3.1 million. Mane’s transfer to the Middle East has not only been financially beneficial but also culturally significant for the devout Muslim, who has spoken publicly about the importance of playing in a Muslim country.
10. Kevin De Bruyne – £30 Million
Rounding out the list is Manchester City’s midfield maestro, Kevin De Bruyne. Despite struggling with injuries in recent years, De Bruyne remains one of the best-paid players in the Premier League, earning £26.9 million in 2024.
His endorsement deals bring in an additional £3.1 million, solidifying his position among football’s elite earners.
