Football wages often spark heated debates, with some players’ performances seemingly falling short of their hefty paychecks. The Bundesliga, home to some of the sport’s most well-compensated stars, is no stranger to such controversies. While many players deliver world-class performances that justify their earnings, others raise eyebrows when their contributions don’t match the size of their salaries. This article explores ten players who, in our view, may be earning more than their on-field impact suggests.
10. Eric Dier – £82,692 per week
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Eric Dier’s transition to Bayern Munich has been anything but smooth. His performances have been plagued by defensive errors and lapses in focus, making it hard to see the value in his weekly wage. Bayern’s high expectations demand far more from him.
9. Yussuf Poulsen – £109,154 per week
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A loyal servant to RB Leipzig, Poulsen’s influence on the pitch has significantly declined in recent years. With fewer goals and reduced involvement in Leipzig’s attacking play, his current salary seems misaligned with his contributions.
Sabitzer’s move to Borussia Dortmund has yet to reignite his career. While he has moments of brilliance, they’re too rare to justify his substantial pay, leaving fans hoping for more consistency from the Austrian midfielder.
Emre Can’s versatility is his greatest asset, but his inconsistent performances for Borussia Dortmund leave much to be desired. Whether deployed in midfield or defense, Can has struggled to bring the stability and reliability expected of him.
6. Konrad Laimer – £148,846 per week
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Since joining Bayern Munich, Laimer has yet to establish himself as a key player. While his work ethic is commendable, his overall impact is limited, raising questions about whether he can justify his weekly paycheck.
5. Dayot Upamecano – £165,385 per week
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Upamecano has the physical attributes of an elite defender but struggles with concentration and decision-making. His costly errors in pivotal matches have led to increasing scrutiny over his value to Bayern Munich.
4. Niklas Süle – £165,385 per week
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Niklas Süle’s fitness and inconsistency have been ongoing concerns since his move to Borussia Dortmund. Despite his experience, he often appears off the pace, leaving fans questioning his ability to perform at a level matching his wages.
Gnabry’s talent is undeniable, but his inconsistency is a recurring issue. Bayern Munich’s fans expect decisive contributions from a player of his caliber, and his inability to deliver consistently makes his high salary a contentious topic.
2. Kingsley Coman – £281,154 per week
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Kingsley Coman is one of the Bundesliga’s most gifted players, but his frequent injuries limit his impact on the pitch. When fit, he is a game-changer, but his sporadic availability makes his salary seem excessive.
1. Thomas Müller – £339,039 per week
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As a Bayern Munich icon, Müller’s contributions off the pitch and leadership qualities are invaluable. However, his reduced playing time and waning influence on games raise questions about whether his salary reflects his current role within the squad.