The biggest earners redefining football wealth in the Saudi Pro League

The Saudi Pro League has firmly established itself as a financial juggernaut in world football. With elite names from Europe, Africa, and South America now calling the Gulf home, the competition’s wage structure reflects its ambition to rival the very best. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking contract to emerging stars chasing fortune and glory, here’s a detailed look at the top earners in Saudi Arabia — ranked from 15 to 1.

15. Rúben Neves – £286,840 per week / £2.24m per year (Al Hilal)

A model of consistency and intelligence, Rúben Neves has transitioned smoothly from Wolves to Al Hilal. The Portuguese midfielder remains one of the most composed deep-lying playmakers in the game. His passing range and tactical discipline give his team balance in both defensive and attacking phases. While not a headline-grabber like some of his teammates, Neves’s influence is quietly immense.

14. João Félix – £290,157 per week / £2.27m per year (Al Nassr)

Once dubbed the heir to Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix is rebuilding his career under the Saudi sun. The Portuguese forward has brought flair and unpredictability to Al Nassr’s attack, offering moments of pure genius with his creativity and technical elegance. Still just 25, he has the potential to become one of the league’s standout stars. The move has allowed him to play with more freedom — and confidence — than ever before.

13. Malcom – £298,447 per week / £2.33m per year (Al Hilal)

After stops at Barcelona and Zenit, Malcom has rediscovered his spark at Al Hilal. The Brazilian attacker’s explosive pace and direct dribbling have made him a nightmare for defenders in the Saudi Pro League. His chemistry with Al Hilal’s other forwards has helped the team dominate offensively. Malcom’s ability to score and create from either flank has turned him into one of the most effective wingers in the region.

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12. Theo Hernández – £338,405 per week / £2.64m per year (Al Hilal)

Theo Hernández’s trademark runs down the left flank have found a new audience in Saudi Arabia. The French full-back remains one of the most athletic and attacking defenders in world football. His arrival at Al Hilal has strengthened the team’s transition play, adding both width and dynamism. Known for his power and confidence, Hernández has adapted quickly to a new league and culture.

11. Kingsley Coman – £338,436 per week / £4.40m per year (Al Nassr)

Few players have collected as many trophies as Kingsley Coman, and now he’s adding riches to that résumé. The French winger’s ability to glide past defenders and deliver decisive moments has made him a major asset for Al Nassr. His experience from Bayern Munich’s golden years has brought professionalism and pedigree to the Saudi stage. At 29, Coman remains in his prime, offering consistency and flair in equal measure.

10. Darwin Núñez – £372,229 per week / £2.91m per year (Al Hilal)

The Uruguayan striker’s move to Saudi Arabia raised eyebrows, but Darwin Núñez has silenced critics with his energy and work rate. His combination of pace and aggression fits perfectly into Al Hilal’s high-intensity approach. Núñez is beginning to show the clinical touch that Liverpool fans only saw in glimpses. With time, he could become one of the most dominant forwards in the league.

9. Marcelo Brozović – £401,245 per week / £3.13m per year (Al Nassr)

The Croatian maestro brings experience and class to Al Nassr’s midfield. A Champions League finalist with Inter Milan, Brozović dictates play with his composure and awareness. His passing and leadership have made him a stabilizing force behind the club’s attacking superstars. At 32, he remains one of the smartest and most dependable midfielders in the region.

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8. N’Golo Kanté – £404,146 per week / £3.23m per year (Al-Ittihad)

N’Golo Kanté’s trademark humility and tireless running haven’t changed, even after moving to Saudi Arabia. The World Cup winner continues to cover every blade of grass, providing unmatched defensive work in midfield. His experience and winning mentality have been vital for Al-Ittihad’s competitiveness. While injuries slowed him down in Europe, Kanté’s influence remains enormous both on and off the pitch.

7. Sergej Milinković-Savić – £422,965 per week / £3.03m per year (Al Hilal)

A complete midfielder, Sergej Milinković-Savić has brought physical dominance and technical excellence to Al Hilal. The Serbian’s box-to-box qualities and aerial threat make him one of the most well-rounded players in the league. His performances continue to justify the high expectations surrounding his move from Lazio. Milinković-Savić embodies the balance of strength and creativity that defines Al Hilal’s midfield.

6. Ivan Toney – £422,965 per week / £5.46m per year (Al-Ahli)

The former Brentford talisman has adapted seamlessly to life in Saudi Arabia. Ivan Toney’s confidence, penalty precision, and link-up play have made him a key figure at Al-Ahli. His work rate and leadership have helped transform the team’s attack. Earning over £5 million per year, Toney is proving he can thrive anywhere in the world.

5. Kalidou Koulibaly – £575,339 per week / £4.49m per year (Al Hilal)

One of the most respected defenders of his generation, Kalidou Koulibaly brings authority and calmness to Al Hilal’s backline. The Senegalese captain remains a dominant presence, both aerially and in one-on-one duels. His experience from Napoli and Chelsea has provided a winning mentality to his teammates. Even at 34, Koulibaly continues to play at an elite level.

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4. Sadio Mané – £663,215 per week / £5.17m per year (Al Nassr)

A national hero and global icon, Sadio Mané remains one of the Saudi Pro League’s brightest stars. His pace, movement, and tireless energy continue to terrorize defenses. After years of success at Liverpool and Bayern Munich, Mané’s hunger to compete hasn’t faded. His partnership with Ronaldo has made Al Nassr’s attack both lethal and entertaining.

3. Karim Benzema – £829,019 per week / £6.47m per year (Al-Ittihad)

The Ballon d’Or winner’s move to Saudi Arabia was one of the biggest statements in recent football history. Karim Benzema’s elegance and intelligence remain unmatched, even at 37. His finishing touch and creative instincts have added a new dimension to Al-Ittihad’s play. Benzema continues to show why he’s regarded as one of the finest forwards of his generation.

2. Riyad Mahrez – £865,495 per week / £6.75m per year (Al-Ahli)

Riyad Mahrez has become the face of flair in the Saudi Pro League. The Algerian winger still possesses the same silky touch and precision that made him a Premier League legend. His leadership and experience are crucial for Al-Ahli’s attacking identity. At 34, Mahrez remains an entertainer — a player who can light up any game with one piece of magic.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo – £3,455,350 per week / £36.9m per year (Al Nassr)

Cristiano Ronaldo remains the undisputed king of football earnings — and arguably still of football itself. At 40, the Portuguese legend continues to defy time, scoring goals and setting standards both on and off the pitch. His presence in Saudi Arabia transformed the league’s global profile overnight. With unmatched professionalism, charisma, and drive, Ronaldo is the symbol of Saudi football’s ambition and global reach.

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