The 25 Highest-Paid English Footballers in 2025 – Ranked from Bottom to Top

June 2, 2025 Oliver Obel

English footballers are among the best-paid athletes in the world, and 2025 has seen an even greater surge in their weekly wages. From rising stars to seasoned veterans, here’s a countdown of the 25 highest-paid English players globally, based on weekly earnings – starting from the bottom of the list.

25. Ollie Watkins – £130,000-per-week (Aston Villa)

Ollie Watkins has transformed into one of Aston Villa’s talismans under Unai Emery. His consistency and goal contributions have been rewarded with a wage packet that reflects his growing status in English football.

24. Cole Palmer – £130,000-per-week (Chelsea)

Since joining Chelsea from Manchester City, Cole Palmer has become the creative heartbeat of the Blues. His impressive output in front of goal has already made him indispensable at Stamford Bridge.

Read the full article

23. Conor Gallagher – £146,062-per-week (Atletico Madrid)

A surprising move to Atletico Madrid has resulted in a significant wage increase for Gallagher. The midfielder’s tenacity and work rate have earned him early praise in Spain.

22. Jarrod Bowen – £150,000-per-week (West Ham United)

West Ham’s skipper has been a consistent performer since his Championship days. His leadership and attacking threat earned him a substantial contract extension in 2024.

21. Kalvin Phillips – £150,000-per-week (Ipswich Town, on loan from Manchester City)

After struggling at Manchester City, Phillips has found a resurgence at Ipswich Town. Though still on City’s books, his weekly earnings remain lofty for a player rediscovering form.

20. Anthony Gordon – £150,000-per-week (Newcastle United)

Gordon has emerged as a vital piece of Eddie Howe’s attacking trio. His move from Everton was controversial, but his performances have justified his substantial wage.

19. Luke Shaw – £150,000-per-week (Manchester United)

Injury-prone yet undeniably talented, Shaw remains one of England’s best full-backs. His pay reflects United’s faith in his abilities, despite limited appearances.

18. Ben White – £150,000-per-week (Arsenal)

White has evolved into a dependable full-back under Mikel Arteta. His defensive prowess and versatility have secured him a strong weekly salary.

17. James Maddison – £170,000-per-week (Tottenham Hotspur)

Maddison was pivotal in Spurs’ early 2023/24 form. Though his season was interrupted by injury, his creative flair continues to justify his wage.

16. Harry Maguire – £190,000-per-week (Manchester United)

Written off by many, Maguire has enjoyed a redemption arc at Old Trafford. He remains one of United’s highest earners thanks to improved performances.

15. Bukayo Saka – £195,000-per-week (Arsenal)

Arguably underpaid relative to his importance, Saka remains the jewel in Arsenal’s crown. His consistent excellence makes him one of the most valuable players in the league.

14. Ben Chilwell – £200,000-per-week (Crystal Palace, on loan from Chelsea)

Chilwell has struggled to fit into Chelsea’s plans but still commands a hefty wage. His loan move to Crystal Palace has given him a platform to showcase his ability again.

13. Phil Foden – £225,000-per-week (Manchester City)

The Stockport-born star has racked up trophies and accolades at City. Foden’s contribution to Guardiola’s side justifies his sizeable pay.

12. Trent Alexander-Arnold – £240,000-per-week (Real Madrid)

sbonsi / Shutterstock.com — Trent Alexander-Arnold

Now at Real Madrid, Alexander-Arnold has seen his wages rise significantly. The full-back’s offensive threat makes him a valuable asset in Spain.

11. Declan Rice – £240,000-per-week (Arsenal)

Rice has anchored Arsenal’s midfield since joining from West Ham. His leadership and consistency have been rewarded with a substantial weekly wage.

10. Reece James – £250,000-per-week (Chelsea)

Photo: Ettore Griffoni / Shutterstock.com

Despite recurring injuries, James is one of Chelsea’s highest earners. As captain, his influence on and off the pitch remains undeniable.

9. Jadon Sancho – £250,000-per-week (Chelsea, on loan from Manchester United)

Sancho’s career has had ups and downs, but his pay has remained consistent. His recent spell at Chelsea is a chance to recapture his best form.

8. John Stones – £250,000-per-week (Manchester City)

Stones’ versatility and tactical intelligence are key to City’s system. His wage reflects his experience and continued importance to Guardiola’s plans.

7. Mason Mount – £250,000-per-week (Manchester United)

Mount’s move to Manchester United came with a major pay rise. Though his form has been patchy, the club still views him as a long-term investment.

6. Marcus Rashford – £300,000-per-week (Aston Villa, on loan from Manchester United)

Rashford’s salary remains among the highest despite a dip in form. His loan to Villa is a fresh start, though his future at United looks uncertain.

5. Jack Grealish – £300,000-per-week (Manchester City)

Grealish’s transfer fee and talent come with heavy expectations. While his numbers haven’t always impressed, his presence is still seen as valuable.

4. Raheem Sterling – £325,000-per-week (Arsenal, on loan from Chelsea)

Sterling’s salary is largely still covered by Chelsea despite his loan. His drop from first-team favour has raised questions about his long-term future.

3. Jude Bellingham – £338,053-per-week (Real Madrid)

Bellingham’s rise has been meteoric, and his wage now reflects it. After a stunning La Liga campaign, he is one of the world’s most admired midfielders.

2. Harry Kane – £405,729-per-week (Bayern Munich)

Kane’s move to Bayern came with a record salary. Even without silverware, his goalscoring output was worth every penny.

1. Ivan Toney – £414,006-per-week (Al-Ahli)

Toney tops the list thanks to his move to the Saudi Pro League. His astronomical wage at Al-Ahli marks a new chapter in his career, far removed from his Brentford days.