From Yamal to Ronaldo: Football’s biggest earners in 2025/26
Football has always been more than just a game. It’s a global industry worth billions, where the biggest stars not only shine on the pitch but also build massive brands off it. Salaries, bonuses, and sponsorship deals have reached heights never seen before, and the 2025/26 season is a perfect example of this evolution. According to Forbes, the highest-paid footballers in the world now earn sums that place them among the most marketable and wealthiest athletes across all sports. Some of them are established icons nearing the end of their careers, while others are rising talents taking the football world by storm. Here’s a closer look at the players who dominate the financial side of the beautiful game.
10. Lamine Yamal – €36.7 million

Lamine Yamal is still only 18, but his impact on the global stage is already immense. Bursting onto the scene with FC Barcelona, he’s become a central figure in the club’s future and one of the most valuable young players in the world. Beyond his salary, Yamal has attracted major sponsorships with Adidas, Konami, and Beats by Dre — deals that reflect his rapidly growing commercial power. His rise symbolizes the new generation of footballers who become global stars almost overnight.
9. Jude Bellingham – €37.5 million

Few players have adapted to life at Real Madrid CF as quickly as Jude Bellingham. Since his blockbuster move in 2023, the English midfielder has become the heartbeat of Madrid’s attack and one of the most talked-about players in Europe. His on-field performances have been matched by his off-field appeal, landing him major deals with Nike and Lucozade. At just 22 years old, Bellingham represents both sporting excellence and modern football stardom.
8. Sadio Mané – €46.2 million

After conquering Europe with Liverpool FC, Sadio Mané chose a new adventure with Al Nassr FC in Saudi Arabia. While no longer in the Champions League spotlight, he remains a major global figure. Mané earns a huge salary and benefits from a long-standing deal with New Balance. His story is also defined by his generosity — known for his philanthropic work in Senegal, he has used his fortune to make a difference beyond the sport.
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7. Mohamed Salah – €47.0 million

Mohamed Salah is one of the defining figures of the modern Premier League. At Liverpool FC, he has become a club legend, breaking records and winning titles. His new contract reflects his status as one of the world’s elite. At 33, Salah remains a key player, combining incredible consistency with a massive global fanbase. His image is a commercial goldmine, driving sponsorship deals and maintaining his place among football’s highest earners.
6. Vinícius Júnior – €51.2 million

Vinícius Júnior is a superstar at Real Madrid CF, where his pace, skill, and flair have made him one of the most exciting attackers in the world. Off the pitch, his growing influence is backed by major deals with Nike, Prada, and Hugo Boss. At 25, he is not just a footballer but a global brand — appealing to both fans and luxury companies. His earnings reflect a perfect balance between elite athletic performance and commercial power.
5. Erling Haaland – €68.3 million

Erling Haaland has taken goal scoring to another level since joining Manchester City FC. The Norwegian striker’s goals have helped City dominate domestically and in Europe, and his salary reflects his status as one of the most feared forwards in the world. He also has lucrative sponsorship deals with Nike and DB, leveraging his growing global appeal. At just 25, Haaland’s earning potential is still climbing, and his presence at the top of the list feels like just the beginning.
4. Kylian Mbappé – €81.2 million

Kylian Mbappé’s move to Real Madrid CF was one of the most anticipated transfers in recent football history. Now the face of the club, he commands one of the highest salaries in the world. But Mbappé is also a savvy businessman, holding a majority share in Stade Malherbe Caen and expanding his influence far beyond the pitch. At 26, he combines superstar talent with sharp financial sense, making him one of the sport’s most complete figures.
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3. Karim Benzema – €88.9 million

Even at 37, Karim Benzema remains one of the biggest earners in football. After a legendary spell at Real Madrid, he now plays for Al Ittihad Club (Jeddah) in Saudi Arabia, where he enjoys a lucrative contract. His brand value is still strong, supported by major sponsorships such as Adidas. Benzema’s continued presence on this list shows how star power and a legendary career can keep generating revenue long after leaving Europe’s top competitions.
2. Lionel Messi – €111.1 million

Lionel Messi is a name that needs no introduction. Now at Inter Miami CF, the Argentine icon continues to earn staggering sums through a combination of salary and enormous commercial deals. Much of his income now comes from sponsorships and partnerships that span the globe. At 38, Messi’s legacy and marketability remain unrivaled, proving that true icons transcend the sport itself.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – €239.9 million

Even at 40, Cristiano Ronaldo stands alone at the top of football’s financial ladder. At Al Nassr FC, he earns a record-breaking salary and continues to dominate commercially with a portfolio of global sponsors. Ronaldo’s career has set the standard for how a footballer can build a global empire — from social media to brand collaborations. His longevity and financial success make him not just a footballer but a worldwide business phenomenon.
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