In the world of Spanish football, financial power often mirrors success on the pitch. La Liga’s salary rankings for 2024-25 underline the dominance of Real Madrid and Barcelona, who house nearly all of the division’s top earners. Here’s a detailed look at the 25 highest-paid players, ranked from lowest to highest annual salary.
25. Ferran Torres – £8.6 million
The versatile winger Ferran Torres rounds off the list with a solid €10 million salary. Despite an up-and-down spell at Barcelona, he remains a valued squad member.
24. Dani Ceballos – £8.9 million
Ceballos earns slightly more than Torres, reflecting his seniority and technical role in Madrid’s midfield rotation. His contributions often come in tight matches when depth is needed.
23. Nico Williams – £8.9 million
One of Athletic Club’s rising stars, Nico Williams commands an impressive wage for a player outside the traditional elite. His pace and flair have made him indispensable in Bilbao.
22. Luka Modrić – £8.9 million
Even in the twilight of his career, Modrić’s leadership and vision justify his €10.4 million salary. The Croatian maestro continues to defy age at Real Madrid.
21. Ferland Mendy – £8.9 million
Often underrated, Mendy’s defensive solidity on the left flank earns him equal pay with other experienced names in the squad. His consistency makes him a reliable presence.
20. Dani Carvajal – £8.9 million
A long-serving member of Real Madrid, Carvajal’s experience and professionalism earn him a strong wage. He’s one of the few defenders with such staying power at a top club.
19. Iñaki Williams – £9.8 million
Joining his brother on the list, Iñaki Williams earns slightly more thanks to his seniority. His loyalty to Athletic Club and explosive athleticism continue to shine.
18. Antoine Griezmann – £10.8 million
The only Atlético forward on this list, Griezmann still commands a hefty salary. He remains pivotal in attack and is arguably the club’s most influential player.
17. Raphinha – £10.8 million
Barcelona’s Brazilian winger matches Griezmann in salary. Raphinha’s direct style and work rate have solidified his place in the starting XI.
16. Eduardo Camavinga – £10.8 million
The French midfielder’s blend of youth and maturity sees him earn a salary befitting his potential. Camavinga has become a key figure in Real Madrid’s midfield evolution.
15. Rodrygo – £10.8 million
Rodrygo’s flair and big-game impact have earned him parity with fellow young stars. His development into a regular starter is reflected in his wage bump.
14. Aurélien Tchouaméni – £10.8 million
Another French international, Tchouaméni’s robust style adds steel to Madrid’s midfield. His salary reflects both current value and future promise.
13. Jules Koundé – £11.7 million
Koundé is Barcelona’s most well-paid defender, a nod to his versatility and defensive sharpness. His ability to slot into multiple roles increases his value to the team.
12. Ansu Fati – £12 million
Despite battling injuries and loan spells, Fati remains a high earner at Barcelona. The club’s faith in his potential continues to reflect in his contract.
11. Antonio Rüdiger – £12.6 million
The German center-back brings physicality and composure to Madrid’s defense. His salary aligns with his stature as one of Europe’s most consistent defenders.
10. Éder Militão – £12.6 million
Militão, like Rüdiger, is paid generously for his commanding displays. Injuries have hindered his progress recently, but he remains a key piece.
9. Thibaut Courtois – £12.9 million
The Belgian goalkeeper is among the highest-paid stoppers in the world. Courtois’ reliability and world-class shot-stopping are vital to Madrid’s ambitions.
8. Federico Valverde – £14.4 million
Valverde’s dynamic midfield play and incredible engine earn him a significant wage. He is one of Madrid’s most complete and versatile players.
7. Jan Oblak – £17.9 million
Atléti’s first entry near the top, Oblak is arguably the best goalkeeper in La Liga. His salary reflects years of consistency and countless match-saving performances.
6. Vinícius Jr. – £17.9 million
The electrifying Brazilian winger has blossomed into a world-class forward. Vinícius earns top-tier money thanks to his ability to change games on his own.
5. Jude Bellingham – £17.9 million
Bellingham has taken La Liga by storm since arriving from Dortmund. His leadership, goals, and all-action style make him one of the most bankable stars.
4. David Alaba – £19.4 million
Alaba’s experience and tactical intelligence command a hefty salary. Capable of playing both defense and midfield, he is a vital asset in Madrid’s setup.
3. Kylian Mbappé – £26.8 million
The new face of Real Madrid, Mbappé instantly becomes one of the league’s top earners. His arrival marks a new era for both Madrid and La Liga.
2. Robert Lewandowski – £28.6 million
The veteran striker remains one of the highest earners, thanks to his legendary status and scoring prowess. Lewandowski continues to deliver at the highest level.
1. Frenkie de Jong – £32.3 million
Topping the list is Barcelona’s midfield maestro. De Jong’s technical brilliance and consistency earn him the highest salary in La Liga for 2024-25.
