by Football, the world’s most popular sport, has created some of the highest-paid athletes on the planet. With lucrative club contracts, endorsement deals, and personal brand ventures, footballers earn staggering amounts of money annually. In 2024, a new crop of stars, along with seasoned veterans, have made their mark not only for their skills on the pitch but also for their bank accounts.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the top 10 highest-paid footballers in the world in 2024, examining their earnings, contracts, and endorsements. Whether you’re a football enthusiast, or just interested in the world of sports business, this list will give you an inside look at the financial might of modern football.
1. Kylian Mbappé – Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Total Earnings (2024): $140 million
Salary: $100 million | Endorsements: $40 million
Kylian Mbappé continues to dominate both on and off the field. Widely regarded as one of the most electrifying footballers in the world, the French star has led PSG to numerous titles and achieved global stardom. Mbappé’s salary at PSG is one of the highest in football history, but it’s his endorsement deals with Nike, Hublot, and EA Sports that make him a true financial powerhouse. His long-term contract at PSG, coupled with his marketability, solidifies his position at the top.
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2. Lionel Messi – Inter Miami
Total Earnings (2024): $130 million
Salary: $90 million | Endorsements: $40 million
Though Lionel Messi made headlines with his move to Inter Miami, his earning potential hasn’t slowed down. The Argentine legend’s move to MLS in the U.S. brought with it a massive paycheck, reportedly one of the highest in American sports. Messi also continues to rake in millions through sponsorships, including deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and Budweiser. His status as a global icon keeps him high on this list, even in the twilight of his career.
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3. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr
Total Earnings (2024): $125 million
Salary: $90 million | Endorsements: $35 million
Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia turned heads in 2023, and in 2024, he remains one of the highest-paid footballers in the world. His astronomical salary at Al-Nassr is matched only by his global appeal. Ronaldo’s brand CR7, alongside endorsements with Nike, Clear, and Herbalife, keeps his earnings robust. Even at 39, Ronaldo’s financial influence is stronger than ever, proving that age is just a number.
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4. Erling Haaland – Manchester City
Total Earnings (2024): $110 million
Salary: $85 million | Endorsements: $25 million
Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland has taken the football world by storm with his goal-scoring prowess. At Manchester City, Haaland earns one of the highest wages in the Premier League. His commercial appeal has also skyrocketed, with endorsement deals from brands like Nike, Samsung, and a fast-growing global fanbase. At just 23 years old, Haaland is likely to remain at the top of football’s earning charts for years to come.
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5. Neymar Jr. – Al-Hilal
Total Earnings (2024): $95 million
Salary: $75 million | Endorsements: $20 million
Neymar’s big-money move to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia has earned him a spot among the world’s top earners once again. The Brazilian superstar has always been a marketing magnet, with partnerships with brands like Puma and Red Bull. His salary in Saudi Arabia is immense, making him one of the highest-paid players in the Middle East. Neymar remains a global brand in his own right, from his skill on the pitch to his off-field charisma.
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6. Robert Lewandowski – FC Barcelona
Total Earnings (2024): $85 million
Salary: $65 million | Endorsements: $20 million
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski continues to make his mark in football at FC Barcelona. Known for his clinical finishing and consistency, Lewandowski commands a significant wage in Spain. His endorsement portfolio includes deals with brands like Nike and Huawei. Even in his mid-thirties, Lewandowski’s contributions to Barcelona’s success make him one of the top-paid footballers in the world.
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7. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool
Total Earnings (2024): $80 million
Salary: $60 million | Endorsements: $20 million
Mohamed Salah’s status as a Liverpool legend is matched by his financial success. The Egyptian forward is one of the Premier League’s highest earners and commands significant endorsement deals with Adidas and Pepsi. Salah’s global appeal, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, has only grown, and his influence off the pitch is as impressive as his abilities on it.
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8. Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City
Total Earnings (2024): $75 million
Salary: $60 million | Endorsements: $15 million
Kevin De Bruyne has been Manchester City’s midfield maestro for several seasons, and his wages reflect that. As one of the Premier League’s best-paid players, De Bruyne also benefits from a growing list of endorsements, including Nike and Therabody. His ability to dominate games from midfield has kept him at the top of the game, both in terms of performance and earnings.
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9. Harry Kane – Bayern Munich
Total Earnings (2024): $70 million
Salary: $55 million | Endorsements: $15 million
Harry Kane’s move to Bayern Munich in 2023 not only boosted his footballing career but also his earnings. Kane’s contract with the German giants places him among the highest-paid in the Bundesliga, and his endorsement deals with brands like Nike and Beats by Dre have continued to grow. His position as one of the world’s elite strikers is undisputed.
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10. Vinícius Júnior – Real Madrid
Total Earnings (2024): $65 million
Salary: $50 million | Endorsements: $15 million
The Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior has emerged as one of the brightest talents in world football, and his earnings reflect his rise. At Real Madrid, Vinícius commands a substantial salary, and his marketability has led to deals with Nike and other major brands. His performances in La Liga and the Champions League have solidified his status as one of the top-earning young players.
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Conclusion
The list of the top 10 highest-paid footballers in the world in 2024 reflects the global appeal of the sport and the financial might of top clubs and leagues. With astronomical salaries and lucrative endorsements, these footballers not only showcase immense talent on the field but also wield significant influence off it. Whether you’re keeping up with the latest football news or intrigued by the economics of the game, this list offers a glimpse into the wealthiest athletes in football today.
FAQ:
1. Who is the highest-paid footballer in 2024?
Kylian Mbappé tops the list with $140 million in total earnings.
2. How much does Lionel Messi earn at Inter Miami?
Messi earns a combined $130 million, with $90 million coming from his salary.
3. Has Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings increased after his move to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr has seen him earn $125 million in 2024.
4. Are footballers earning more in Saudi Arabia now?
With moves like Neymar and Ronaldo to Saudi clubs, wages in the region have skyrocketed.
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