The 12 Highest-Paid Players of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona
Two of football’s greatest clubs — Real Madrid and FC Barcelona — not only dominate on the field but also in the paychecks of their superstars. These two giants continue to attract and retain world-class talent with staggering salaries. From rising young prodigies to established legends, their wage bills highlight the financial muscle behind El Clásico. Here’s a countdown of the 12 highest-paid players across both teams.
12. Trent Alexander-Arnold – €320,577 per week / €16,670,000 per year
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s arrival in Madrid added precision and leadership to the right flank. The English defender’s tactical intelligence and deadly crosses have quickly become vital assets. His salary reflects both his technical brilliance and his growing global brand. At just 26, he’s one of Europe’s most influential modern full-backs.
11. Federico Valverde – €320,577 per week / €16,670,000 per year
Federico Valverde embodies the spirit of Real Madrid — tireless, versatile, and fiercely competitive. The Uruguayan midfielder’s energy defines Madrid’s transition play. His salary mirrors his importance as a bridge between defense and attack. Few players combine stamina and technical precision like Valverde.
10. Rodrygo – €320,577 per week / €16,670,000 per year
Rodrygo’s explosiveness and clutch performances in big matches have made him a Bernabéu favorite. Still only in his early 20s, the Brazilian winger continues to evolve into a world-class finisher. His weekly paycheck reflects Madrid’s faith in his long-term potential. He’s part of the club’s next great attacking dynasty.
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9. Lamine Yamal – €320,577 per week / €16,670,000 per year
Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal is already one of football’s most electrifying young stars. His creativity and fearlessness have injected new life into the Catalan attack. At just 17, earning over €320k a week is staggering — but deserved. Barça view him as the cornerstone of their post-Messi era.
8. Marc-André ter Stegen – €320,577 per week / €16,670,000 per year
Ter Stegen remains Barcelona’s anchor in defense, combining calmness with world-class reflexes. The German goalkeeper has been instrumental in maintaining Barça’s stability amid change. His salary reflects both loyalty and consistency at the highest level. Few goalkeepers have matched his longevity and composure.
7. Raphinha – €320,577 per week / €16,670,000 per year
Raphinha’s flair and intensity have made him one of Barcelona’s most unpredictable attacking weapons. The Brazilian winger’s combination of speed and precision makes him a nightmare for defenders. His wages mirror his impact in crucial games and European nights. Barça count on him for the creativity that unlocks tight defenses.
6. Frenkie de Jong – €365,385 per week / €19,000,000 per year
Frenkie de Jong is the heartbeat of Barcelona’s midfield — intelligent, composed, and technically gifted. The Dutchman orchestrates play with effortless control and vision. His salary confirms his status as one of the most complete midfielders in the world. Every Barça build-up begins and ends through De Jong.
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5. Jude Bellingham – €400,577 per week / €20,830,000 per year
Jude Bellingham’s first season at Real Madrid has been nothing short of spectacular. The Englishman blends creativity, power, and a relentless drive to dominate. His salary matches the impact he’s already had as Madrid’s new talisman. At 22, Bellingham is the face of Madrid’s future — and perhaps all of European football.
4. Vinicius Junior – €400,577 per week / €20,830,000 per year
Vinicius Junior is more than just speed — he’s the pulse of Real Madrid’s attack. His dribbling and fearless play make him one of the most thrilling talents in the world. The Brazilian star’s salary mirrors his rise to superstardom. For Madrid, he’s the new global icon succeeding the Ronaldo era.
3. Robert Lewandowski – €400,577 per week / €20,830,000 per year
Robert Lewandowski remains Barcelona’s most reliable goal machine. The Polish striker’s professionalism and finishing instinct are unmatched. His wages reflect a decade of dominance at the highest level. Even in his mid-30s, Lewandowski continues to define elite forward play.
2. David Alaba – €432,692 per week / €22,500,000 per year
David Alaba’s versatility has been crucial for Real Madrid — a defender who can dictate play like a midfielder. His experience and tactical maturity make him a natural leader. The Austrian’s high salary recognizes his influence on and off the field. Alaba’s presence adds balance and authority to Madrid’s back line.
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1. Kylian Mbappé – €600,962 per week / €31,250,000 per year
Kylian Mbappé stands atop both clubs — and world football — as the ultimate superstar. His record-breaking salary marks a new era for Real Madrid and for the sport itself. Lightning pace, clinical finishing, and charisma define his every move. Mbappé isn’t just a player — he’s a global phenomenon redefining football’s elite.
