Kylian Mbappe, Lamine yamal, Vinicius, Jude Bellingham

La Liga’s golden paycheck era: The highest-earning superstars in Spain

October 24, 2025 Oliver Obel

Spanish football has always been synonymous with glamour, passion, and global superstars — and in 2025, the paychecks are bigger than ever. The days of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo may be behind us, but a new generation of stars has taken over, redefining what it means to be elite in modern football. With Real Madrid and Barcelona once again at the heart of Europe’s footballing spotlight, their financial muscle continues to shape the future of La Liga.

Real Madrid dominate this list, blending Galáctico glamour with long-term planning by securing some of the game’s brightest young talents. Barcelona, meanwhile, remain determined to compete, paying premium wages to keep their core intact during a period of transition. Athletic Club and Atlético Madrid each contribute one standout figure, proof that even outside the big two, La Liga remains home to world-class talent.

From teenage prodigies like Lamine Yamal to global icons like Kylian Mbappé, this is the definitive breakdown of the 12 highest-earning players in Spanish football — ranked by their annual and weekly salaries.

12. Trent Alexander-Arnold – £14.3 million per year / £276,395 per week (Real Madrid)

The English right-back has adjusted impressively to life in Spain, bringing precision, leadership, and world-class delivery to Real Madrid’s defense. Known for his pinpoint crosses and creative influence from deep, he’s become a tactical weapon under Carlo Ancelotti. Earning £276,395 weekly, Alexander-Arnold is not just a full-back — he’s a playmaker in disguise. His long-term deal until 2031 confirms Madrid’s faith in his versatility and consistency.

11. Nico Williams – £14.3 million per year / £276,395 per week (Athletic Club)

Athletic Club’s golden boy, Nico Williams, is a shining symbol of loyalty and ambition. The 23-year-old winger’s contract — worth around £14.3 million a year — includes an unbelievable £1.9 billion release clause, effectively keeping him untouchable. His explosive pace, confidence, and flair make him one of La Liga’s most exciting attackers. With a deal stretching to 2035, Williams has committed his prime years to Bilbao, becoming the face of their modern identity.

10. Raphinha – £14.3 million per year / £276,395 per week (Barcelona)

Raphinha has evolved into one of Barcelona’s most dependable attacking outlets. The Brazilian’s relentless work rate and sharp finishing have solidified his position as a key starter under Xavi. His £276,395 weekly wage mirrors his growing importance in Barça’s forward line. As he enters his peak years, Raphinha looks ready to deliver consistency and creativity in a side looking to reclaim its former dominance.

9. Rodrygo – £14.3 million per year / £276,395 per week (Real Madrid)

Marta Fernandez Jimenez / Shutterstock.com

Rodrygo’s rise through the ranks at Real Madrid has been steady and assured. The Brazilian forward’s intelligence and versatility have made him an indispensable part of Ancelotti’s attacking setup. With an annual income of £14.3 million, Rodrygo’s value continues to grow as he matures into one of Europe’s most polished young attackers. His composure and knack for big goals have made him a favorite among Madridistas.

8. Lamine Yamal – £14.4 million per year / £276,395 per week (Barcelona)

At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal is already earning wages comparable to global stars — around £14.4 million annually. His dazzling footwork, confidence, and maturity have turned him into a generational talent for Barcelona. The club’s decision to set his release clause at £862 million shows just how highly they value him. Every appearance seems to strengthen his reputation as one of world football’s most promising young players.

7. Frenkie de Jong – £16.4 million per year / £315,027 per week (Barcelona)

The Dutch midfield general remains the calm in Barcelona’s storm. Earning just over £16 million annually, De Jong dictates play with an elegance that few in Europe can match. His £315,000 weekly wage reflects his unmatched influence in controlling tempo and transitions. With his contract locked in until 2029, De Jong continues to represent the technical and tactical ideals that define Barça’s footballing philosophy.

6. Jude Bellingham – £17.9 million per year / £345,369 per week (Real Madrid)

Jude Bellingham has transformed Real Madrid’s midfield with his energy, intelligence, and goalscoring instincts. The Englishman’s impact in his debut season was instant — and his £17.9 million salary is already looking like a bargain. At £345,000 a week, he’s one of the youngest players on this list, yet one of the most influential. His maturity and leadership have made him the heartbeat of Madrid’s next great era.

5. Robert Lewandowski – £17.9 million per year / £345,369 per week (Barcelona)

Even at 37, Robert Lewandowski remains one of the most feared strikers in world football. The Polish legend continues to lead Barcelona’s attack with precision, experience, and ruthless finishing. His £345,000 weekly earnings underline his continued value to the team, even as he nears the final year of his deal. Few players have maintained such a consistent level for as long as Lewandowski, whose professionalism sets the standard for younger teammates.

4. Jan Oblak – £17.9 million per year / £345,369 per week (Atlético Madrid)

For nearly a decade, Jan Oblak has been the immovable force between Atlético Madrid’s posts. The Slovenian captain remains one of the best goalkeepers in the world, known for his sharp reflexes and flawless positioning. Earning £345,000 per week, Oblak’s presence continues to inspire Diego Simeone’s side. His consistency and calmness under pressure have been vital to Atlético’s sustained competitiveness in both La Liga and Europe.

3. Vinicius Junior – £17.9 million per year / £345,369 per week (Real Madrid)

Vinicius Junior has developed from a raw prospect into one of Real Madrid’s most electrifying players. The Brazilian winger’s pace, flair, and confidence make him unplayable on his day. Earning £345,000 weekly, he has become a face of Madrid’s future and a nightmare for defenders across Europe. At 25, Vinicius is entering his peak — and his performances suggest the best is still to come.

2. David Alaba – £19.4 million per year / £373,058 per week (Real Madrid)

David Alaba’s experience and versatility remain invaluable to Real Madrid. Whether playing in defense or midfield, the Austrian brings composure and leadership that few can replicate. His weekly wage of £373,000 places him among Europe’s top-paid defenders, a testament to his quality and consistency. Even as injuries have limited his appearances, Alaba’s influence within the squad and dressing room remains immense.

1. Kylian Mbappé – £26.9 million per year / £518,137 per week (Real Madrid)

Kylian Mbappe — Mikolaj Barbanell / Shutterstock.com

Kylian Mbappé sits at the summit of Spanish football’s rich list — and it’s no surprise. The French superstar earns an astonishing £518,000 per week, amounting to £26.9 million annually, cementing his status as the face of Real Madrid’s new Galáctico era. His blistering pace, lethal finishing, and global appeal have already made him a cornerstone of the club’s identity. At just 26, Mbappé’s arrival signals not just a signing, but a statement of dominance for years to come.