From Bundesliga to Global Riches: Top-Earning German Football Stars

January 27, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

German footballers are among the most skilled and influential players in the world, commanding impressive salaries at top clubs. From experienced leaders to rising stars, these athletes showcase their talent on the biggest stages while earning substantial contracts.

15. Benjamin Henrichs – RB Leipzig – £6,493,000

Benjamin Henrichs, the versatile full-back for RB Leipzig, earns £6,493,000 annually. Known for his ability to play on both flanks, Henrichs has been a key player for Leipzig in the Bundesliga and European competitions. His salary reflects his steady contributions on the field and his importance to the squad.

14. David Raum – RB Leipzig – £6,493,000

David Raum, a talented left-back, shares the same salary as his teammate Benjamin Henrichs. Raum has quickly gained recognition for his exceptional crossing ability and attacking instincts. His impact for Leipzig and Germany’s national team makes him a key figure at the club.

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13. Matthias Ginter – SC Freiburg – £6,493,000

At number 13, Matthias Ginter’s salary matches the two Leipzig stars. The experienced defender brings leadership and stability to SC Freiburg. His reliable performances have ensured his place among Germany’s highest earners.

12. Emre Can – Borussia Dortmund – £6,880,000

Emre Can, a versatile midfielder and defender for Borussia Dortmund, earns £6,880,000 annually. Known for his physical presence and tactical intelligence, Can has been an essential figure for Dortmund in both domestic and European competitions.

11. Timo Werner – Tottenham – £8,580,000

Timo Werner earns £8,580,000 annually, reflecting Tottenham’s investment in his speed and finishing ability. Known for his blistering pace, Werner has the potential to reignite his career and contribute significantly in the Premier League.

10. Niklas Süle – Borussia Dortmund – £8,600,000

Niklas Süle earns £8,600,000 annually, making him one of Borussia Dortmund’s highest-paid players. The towering defender joined Dortmund from Bayern München.

9. Leon Goretzka – Bayern München – £11,180,000

Leon Goretzka, Bayern München’s midfield powerhouse, earns £11,180,000 annually. Renowned for his box-to-box capabilities and physical dominance, Goretzka has been an integral part of Bayern’s domestic and European success.

8. Ilkay Gundogan – Manchester City – £11,960,000

Ilkay Gundogan, one of Germany’s most technically gifted midfielders, earns £11,960,000 annually. As a key figure for Manchester City, Gundogan’s creativity and leadership have been instrumental in the club’s success under Pep Guardiola.

7. Antonio Rüdiger – Real Madrid – £12,548,000

Antonio Rüdiger, Real Madrid’s defensive rock, earns £12,548,000 annually. Renowned for his aggression and reliability, Rüdiger has become a cornerstone in Madrid’s backline. His salary reflects his stature as one of the world’s best defenders.

6. Leroy Sané – Bayern München – £12,900,000

Leroy Sane — Mikolaj Barbanell / Shutterstock.com

Leroy Sané ranks sixth with an annual salary of £12,900,000. Known for his flair, pace, and precision, Sané has been a fan favorite and a vital part of Bayern München’s attacking firepower. His ability to create and score crucial goals makes him indispensable to the team.

5. Kai Havertz – Arsenal – £14,560,000

Kai Havertz, Arsenal’s midfield maestro, takes fifth place with a salary of £14,560,000. Known for his versatility and elegance on the ball, Havertz has brought creativity and technical brilliance to Arsenal’s squad. His earnings highlight the significant investment Arsenal has made in his potential to lead them to glory.

4. Serge Gnabry – Bayern München – £16,228,200

Serge Gnabry earns £16,228,200 annually, making him one of Bayern München’s highest-paid stars. A consistent scorer and creator, Gnabry has been a vital part of Bayern’s domestic dominance. His ability to deliver in crucial moments underscores his immense value to the team.

3. Joshua Kimmich – Bayern München – £16,770,000

Joshua Kimmich, Bayern München’s midfield general, ranks third with a salary of £16,770,000. A leader on and off the pitch, Kimmich’s versatility, intelligence, and work ethic have cemented his reputation as one of the world’s best midfielders.

2. Thomas Müller – Bayern München – £17,630,000

Thomas Müller, the legendary Raumdeuter of Bayern München, earns £17,630,000 annually. With his uncanny ability to find space and deliver goals and assists, Müller remains a central figure in Bayern’s success. His salary reflects his enduring impact and leadership.

1. Manuel Neuer – Bayern München – £18,060,000

At the top of the list is Manuel Neuer, the legendary Bayern München goalkeeper, earning £18,060,000 annually. Widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, Neuer’s shot-stopping ability and sweeper-keeper style have redefined his position. His earnings reflect his unmatched contributions to Bayern and German football.