How Big Is the Difference? This Is How Much the Highest-Paid Premier League Stars Earned 10 Years Ago
Premier League stars today earn astronomical salaries, with the highest-paid players securing staggering annual wages. But how much were the league’s biggest names making a decade ago? We have the answer for you here, as we rank 25 of the highest-paid players from the 2015/16 season—from the lowest to the highest
25. Memphis Depay – £120,000 per week / £6,240,000 per year
Arriving at Manchester United with high expectations, Depay was one of the most exciting young talents in Europe. His weekly wage of £120,000 reflected the club’s faith in his potential, though he ultimately failed to make a lasting impact at Old Trafford.
24. Joe Hart – £130,000 per week / £6,760,000 per year
Once England’s undisputed number one goalkeeper, Joe Hart enjoyed a lucrative contract at Manchester City. However, his career took a downturn shortly after, as Pep Guardiola’s arrival led to his departure from the club.
23. Daniel Sturridge – £130,000 per week / £6,760,000 per year
During his peak at Liverpool, Sturridge formed a lethal partnership with Luis Suárez. Injuries plagued his career, but at his best, he was one of the league’s most clinical forwards, well compensated for his performances.
22. Alex Song – £131,423 per week / £6,834,000 per year
Song’s high wages at West Ham were surprising to some, considering he never truly replicated his best form from his Arsenal days. He was one of the highest-paid midfielders at the club but struggled to make a lasting impression.
21. James Milner – £140,000 per week / £7,280,000 per year
A player known for his versatility and work ethic, Milner earned a substantial salary at Liverpool. His longevity in the league is remarkable, proving his value to multiple clubs over the years.
20. Alexis Sánchez – £140,000 per week / £7,280,000 per year
Sánchez was one of Arsenal’s key players, justifying his wages with consistent match-winning performances. He would later move to Manchester United on an even more lucrative contract, though that transfer proved disastrous.
19. Theo Walcott – £140,000 per week / £7,280,000 per year
Once seen as England’s next big star, Walcott commanded a strong salary at Arsenal. Though he never quite reached his full potential, he remained a reliable presence on the wing for many years.
18. Mesut Özil – £140,000 per week / £7,280,000 per year
Ozil was a marquee signing for Arsenal, bringing world-class creativity to the squad. His salary was justified by his ability to dictate games, though his later years at the club were overshadowed by controversy.
17. Falcao – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
Once one of the most feared strikers in the world, Falcao’s time in the Premier League was underwhelming. Despite earning £150,000 per week at Chelsea, he failed to recapture his peak form.
16. Oscar – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
Oscar was a key playmaker for Chelsea before making a shock move to China, where he earned even more than in England. His departure highlighted the financial lure of the Chinese Super League at the time.
15. Vincent Kompany – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
As Manchester City’s captain and defensive leader, Kompany’s salary reflected his importance. He was the backbone of City’s transformation into a dominant force in English football.
14. Diego Costa – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
Costa was a relentless striker who bullied defenders and delivered crucial goals for Chelsea. His high wages were justified by his role in helping the club win multiple Premier League titles.
13. Kevin De Bruyne – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
In 2015, De Bruyne was just beginning to establish himself as a Premier League star. A decade later, he is regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, with a salary that has more than doubled since then.
12. Raheem Sterling – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
Sterling’s big-money move from Liverpool to Manchester City saw his wages increase significantly. His development into a key player for both club and country proved that investment in young talent can pay off.
11. Samir Nasri – £150,000 per week / £7,800,000 per year
A gifted playmaker, Nasri was a crucial figure in Manchester City’s midfield. However, injuries and off-field controversies saw his career decline after leaving the club.
10. Juan Mata – £160,000 per week / £8,320,000 per year
Mata was a fan favorite at both Chelsea and Manchester United, known for his technical brilliance. Despite not always being a guaranteed starter, he remained one of the club’s top earners.
9. Sergio Agüero – £160,000 per week / £8,320,000 per year
One of the greatest strikers in Premier League history, Agüero’s salary reflected his status. His legendary last-minute goal in 2012 cemented his legacy at Manchester City.
8. David Silva – £160,000 per week / £8,320,000 per year
Silva was the creative heartbeat of Manchester City, earning every penny of his wage with his vision and passing ability. He played a key role in transforming City into serial winners.
7. Cesc Fàbregas – £164,788 per week / £8,569,000 per year
Returning to the Premier League with Chelsea, Fàbregas’ passing range made him a vital asset. His high salary reflected his experience and ability to control games from midfield.
6. John Terry – £175,000 per week / £9,100,000 per year
As Chelsea’s long-time captain, Terry remained one of the highest-paid defenders in the league. His leadership and defensive excellence made him invaluable to the club.
5. Eden Hazard – £178,577 per week / £9,286,000 per year
One of the most electrifying players of his era, Hazard’s dribbling and goal-scoring ability made him Chelsea’s main man. His salary reflected his status as one of the league’s top stars.
4. Yaya Touré – £190,000 per week / £9,880,000 per year
Touré’s dominance in midfield was a major factor in Manchester City’s success. His powerful runs and ability to score crucial goals made him worth every pound of his salary.
3. David de Gea – £200,000 per week / £10,400,000 per year
At his peak, De Gea was considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world. His wages at Manchester United were a testament to how many games he single-handedly won for the club.
2. Wayne Rooney – £235,000 per week / £12,220,000 per year
Manchester United’s all-time top scorer was among the best-paid players in the league. His longevity and ability to adapt his game over time made him a true Premier League icon.
1. Bastian Schweinsteiger – £240,000 per week / £12,480,000 per year
A World Cup-winning midfielder, Schweinsteiger arrived at Manchester United with immense pedigree. Despite struggling to adapt to the English game, he was the highest-paid player in the league at the time.
