The 23 Highest-Paid Players in the French National Team – Ranked from Lowest to Highest
France’s national team continues to boast one of the most star-studded squads in world football — and their paychecks prove it. From young prospects like Maghnes Akliouche to global icons such as Kylian Mbappé, the financial spectrum within Les Bleus is staggering. Here’s a look at the 23 best-paid French players in October 2025, ranked from the lowest earner to the team’s undisputed superstar.
23. Maghnes Akliouche – £985,000 per year
The young Monaco attacker is among France’s brightest emerging talents. Akliouche’s modest salary reflects his early stage of development, but his technique and vision suggest a big payday could be near.
22. Malo Gusto – £2,010,000 per year
Chelsea’s adventurous right-back is growing into a regular Premier League performer. His attacking runs and work ethic underline why he’s viewed as a long-term option for Les Bleus.
21. Jean-Philippe Mateta – £2,240,000 per year
The Crystal Palace striker offers power and presence in attack. Mateta’s salary reflects his reliability as a backup forward who can step up when called upon.
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20. Mike Maignan – £3,090,000 per year
AC Milan’s first-choice goalkeeper is one of Europe’s most composed and consistent shot-stoppers. His leadership qualities make him essential for both club and country.
19. Khéphren Thuram – £3,180,000 per year
Juventus’ powerful midfielder brings athleticism and balance to the French midfield. Still young, Thuram is expected to see his salary rise as his Serie A influence deepens.
18. Ibrahima Konaté – £3,130,000 per year
Liverpool’s defensive powerhouse has become one of France’s most dependable centre-backs. His strength and tactical awareness justify every penny of his wage.
17. Brice Samba – £3,910,000 per year
The Rennes keeper’s calm under pressure has earned him a late-career breakthrough. His salary rewards years of persistence and steady progression.
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16. Manu Koné – £4,470,000 per year
Now starring for Roma, Koné blends defensive intensity with box-to-box energy. His rising pay mirrors his growing stature in both Serie A and the national team.
15. Bradley Barcola – £5,680,000 per year
The PSG winger is one of France’s most exciting young attackers. With pace, creativity, and flair, Barcola’s earnings reflect his emergence as a key part of PSG’s next generation.
14. Lucas Digne – £6,040,000 per year
Aston Villa’s veteran left-back remains a steady performer in England. Digne’s experience and attacking delivery ensure he stays among France’s trusted defenders.
13. Lucas Chevalier – £6,610,000 per year
After signing a lucrative five-year deal with PSG, Chevalier’s salary soared. The young goalkeeper is viewed as a long-term successor to France’s No. 1 spot.
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12. Christopher Nkunku – £7,960,000 per year
The Milan forward dazzles with creativity and technical precision. His salary mirrors his reputation as one of Europe’s most inventive and versatile attackers.
11. Adrien Rabiot – £7,960,000 per year
Composed and elegant, Rabiot is the heartbeat of AC Milan’s midfield. His experience and balance in France’s setup justify his substantial annual pay.
10. Dayot Upamecano – £8,600,000 per year
The Bayern Munich defender is a cornerstone of both club and country. Strong, composed, and quick, Upamecano’s wages fit his world-class profile.
9. Hugo Ekitiké – £8,940,000 per year
Now at Liverpool, the young striker’s contract reflects faith in his long-term potential. Ekitiké’s combination of pace and poise makes him one to watch.
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8. Eduardo Camavinga – £10,750,000 per year
Real Madrid’s midfield prodigy continues to evolve into a complete player. His versatility and tactical awareness have earned him a place among France’s top earners.
7. William Saliba – £11,180,000 per year
The Arsenal star is now one of the Premier League’s elite defenders. Saliba’s salary highlights his rapid rise and long-term importance for both club and country.
6. Lucas Hernandez – £11,350,000 per year
Back in France with PSG, Hernandez adds steel and leadership to their defense. His experience and pedigree justify his place near the top of the wage ladder.
5. Michael Olise – £11,620,000 per year
After his move to Bayern Munich, Olise’s career has skyrocketed. The gifted winger is rewarded handsomely for his creativity, vision, and flair in attack.
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4. Jules Koundé – £13,440,000 per year
Barcelona’s defensive mainstay exudes calm and precision on the ball. His salary places him among the highest-paid defenders in Europe.
3. Theo Hernandez – £17,550,000 per year
Now at Al-Hilal, Hernandez enjoys a blockbuster deal that matches his talent. The explosive left-back remains one of the most dynamic defenders in world football.
2. Kingsley Coman – £17,550,000 per year
The Al-Nassr winger continues to collect silverware and paychecks in equal measure. A proven winner, Coman’s wages confirm his world-class status.
1. Kylian Mbappé – £26,870,000 per year
Real Madrid’s global superstar tops the list as France’s highest-paid player. Mbappé’s extraordinary earnings mirror his influence both on and off the pitch — a symbol of modern football’s elite.
