The Best-Paid Players at St. Pauli – Ranked from Lowest to Highest

March 20, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

St. Pauli has been making waves in German football. The club has built a competitive squad despite operating on a more modest budget compared to some of its rivals. Managing player wages efficiently is crucial for a club like St. Pauli, where smart investments play a key role in success.

We’ve taken a closer look at the team’s payroll and ranked the highest-paid players from lowest to highest.

12. Jackson Irvine – £10,703 per week / £556,580 per year

Australian midfielder Jackson Irvine has been a key figure for St. Pauli, bringing leadership and experience to the squad. His ability to control the midfield and contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a vital part of the team.

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11. Simon Zoller – £10,703 per week / £556,580 per year

Veteran forward Simon Zoller adds depth to St. Pauli’s attacking options with his experience and goal-scoring ability. While he may not be the first-choice striker, his contributions off the bench and leadership in the dressing room are invaluable.

10. David Nemeth – £12,650 per week / £657,777 per year

Austrian defender David Nemeth provides stability at the back for St. Pauli. His aerial presence and strong tackling make him a reliable option in the defensive line.

9. Oladapo Afolayan – £12,650 per week / £657,777 per year

The English winger Oladapo Afolayan is known for his pace and dribbling skills, making him a dangerous attacking threat. His ability to take on defenders and create chances adds dynamism to St. Pauli’s forward play.

8. Johannes Eggestein – £13,623 per week / £708,375 per year

German forward Johannes Eggestein is a versatile attacker capable of playing across multiple positions. His sharp movement and finishing ability make him a key asset in St. Pauli’s offensive strategy.

7. Hauke Wahl – £13,623 per week / £708,375 per year

Defender Hauke Wahl is an experienced leader at the back, known for his strong tackling and ability to organize the defense. His consistency and composure make him an important presence in St. Pauli’s backline.

6. Manolis Saliakas – £13,623 per week / £708,375 per year

Greek right-back Manolis Saliakas provides both defensive stability and attacking support. His overlapping runs and solid defensive work make him a valuable player on St. Pauli’s right flank.

5. Morgan Guilavogui – £13,785 per week / £716,808 per year

Guinean forward Morgan Guilavogui has added a new dimension to St. Pauli’s attack with his agility and finishing skills. His ability to find space and convert chances makes him one of the team’s most exciting attacking players.

4. Siebe Van der Heyden – £13,785 per week / £716,808 per year

Belgian defender Siebe Van der Heyden is a crucial part of St. Pauli’s defensive setup. His ability to read the game and contribute in aerial duels makes him a formidable presence at the back.

3. James Sands – £15,407 per week / £801,138 per year

American midfielder James Sands brings a combination of technical skill and defensive awareness to St. Pauli’s midfield. His versatility allows him to play both as a holding midfielder and in defense, making him a key tactical asset.

2. Eric Smith – £15,569 per week / £809,571 per year

Swedish midfielder Eric Smith plays a pivotal role in St. Pauli’s midfield, controlling the tempo and dictating play. His vision and passing range make him one of the team’s most influential players.

1. Nikola Vasilj – £16,217 per week / £843,304 per year

Bosnian goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj is the highest-paid player at St. Pauli, reflecting his importance to the squad. His shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and leadership make him a crucial part of the team’s defensive setup.