While Liga Portugal may not have the spending power of Europe’s wealthiest leagues, it continues to punch above its weight—both on the pitch and in talent development. Clubs in the league have produced and attracted standout players, some of whom are among the continent’s most sought-after names.
In this feature, we’ve taken a closer look at the salaries across the top flight and ranked the 22 highest-paid players in the league, from the lowest to the highest earner. The numbers offer an intriguing glimpse into the wage structure of a league that remains fiercely competitive despite its modest budgets.
22. Jeremiah St. Juste – £31,397 per week / £1,632,643 per year
The Dutch center-back is known for his speed and athleticism, offering solid defensive cover for his team. Despite injuries affecting his consistency, his salary reflects his key role in the squad.
21. Samuel Dahl – £31,397 per week / £1,632,643 per year
The Swedish full-back is a rising talent in Portuguese football. His dependable performances on the flank have earned him a respectable paycheck among the league’s top earners.
20. Florentino – £31,397 per week / £1,632,643 per year
Florentino is a disciplined defensive midfielder with excellent positioning and ball-recovery skills. His wages underline his importance as a backbone of the midfield.
19. Morten Hjulmand – £32,705 per week / £1,700,670 per year
The Danish international has quickly become one of the most reliable midfielders in the league. His aggressive pressing and smart passing make him a cornerstone in central areas.
18. Pepê – £34,340 per week / £1,785,705 per year
A versatile Brazilian capable of playing both in defense and midfield, Pepê brings tactical flexibility. His consistency and work rate have made him a fan favorite.
17. Marko Grujić – £34,504 per week / £1,794,207 per year
The Serbian midfielder offers physicality and technical quality in equal measure. Formerly of Liverpool, his experience adds depth and stability to the midfield.
16. Tiago Djaló – £37,775 per week / £1,964,274 per year
A promising Portuguese center-back with a strong build and good anticipation. His return to the domestic league has been rewarded with a solid salary package.
15. Viktor Gyökeres – £39,246 per week / £2,040,804 per year
The Swedish striker has impressed with his goal-scoring instincts and physical presence. He’s a key attacking weapon and rightly among the better-paid forwards.
14. Pedro Gonçalves – £39,246 per week / £2,040,804 per year
Often dubbed “Pote,” Gonçalves is a creative spark with an eye for goal. His versatility and output justify his place among the top earners.
13. Leandro Barreiro Martins – £40,881 per week / £2,125,837 per year
The Luxembourg midfielder is known for his energy and ability to break up play. He plays a crucial box-to-box role and has been rewarded accordingly.
12. Nicolás Otamendi – £41,209 per week / £2,142,484 per year
The veteran Argentine defender brings leadership and grit to the backline. His wealth of international and European experience makes him a valuable asset.
11. Fábio Vieira – £45,460 per week / £2,363,931 per year
After a stint in England, Vieira returned with flair and creativity. His technical ability and attacking vision help unlock defenses across the league.
10. Fredrik Aursnes – £47,095 per week / £2,448,965 per year
The Norwegian is a tireless workhorse in midfield, equally adept at defending and progressing the ball. His steady performances are crucial to his team’s rhythm.
9. Kerem Aktürkoğlu – £47,095 per week / £2,448,965 per year
An explosive winger from Turkey, Aktürkoğlu provides width, pace, and a direct threat. His attacking intent and productivity earn him a top salary.
8. Vangelis Pavlidis – £47,095 per week / £2,448,965 per year
The Greek forward has brought goals and sharp movement to the league. His poaching instincts have been vital for his side’s attacking efficiency.
7. Andrea Belotti – £47,095 per week / £2,448,965 per year
The experienced Italian striker offers strength and aggression up front. Though past his prime, his salary reflects his pedigree and presence.
6. Orkun Kökçü – £49,058 per week / £2,551,005 per year
A classy Turkish midfielder known for his vision and passing range. His leadership from midfield and playmaking ability are key to his high valuation.
5. Anatolii Trubin – £62,957 per week / £3,273,789 per year
The Ukrainian goalkeeper is one of the league’s most promising shot-stoppers. His reflexes and command of the box put him among the best-paid keepers.
4. Ángel Di María – £62,957 per week / £3,273,789 per year
Even in the twilight of his career, the Argentine wizard remains a dangerous attacking outlet. His world-class pedigree and experience come at a premium.
3. Arthur Cabral – £62,957 per week / £3,273,789 per year
The Brazilian striker is a physical force and consistent goal scorer. His commanding presence in the box earns him a spot among the elite earners.
2. Trincão – £63,775 per week / £3,316,306 per year
Once hailed as one of Portugal’s brightest talents, Trincão continues to deliver in flashes. His creativity and flair command a hefty paycheck.
1. Renato Sanches – £113,160 per week / £5,884,318 per year
The league’s highest-paid player, Sanches brings power, drive, and flair to midfield. A dynamic presence when fit, he remains a marquee name in Portuguese football.
