Footballers are no longer just athletes — they’re global brands commanding staggering salaries, sponsorship deals, and commercial endorsements. Forbes has released its ranking of the highest-paid footballers in 2025, and the list showcases a fascinating mix of longevity, emerging stars, and Middle Eastern money reshaping the game’s economy.
Below are the top 10 highest-paid players in the world in 2025, ranked by total earnings (including salary and endorsements):
10. Lamine Yamal — $43 million (€37 million)
At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has already become one of the most marketable young athletes in world sport. Alongside his rising salary at Barcelona, his endorsement deals with Nike and other major brands have pushed him into the global rich list before even reaching adulthood.
9. Jude Bellingham — $44 million (€38 million)
Real Madrid’s midfield superstar is not just dominating on the pitch but also in global sponsorship value. With partnerships ranging from Adidas to luxury lifestyle brands, Bellingham has cemented himself as one of football’s most bankable faces.
8. Sadio Mané — $54 million (€46 million)
Now playing in Saudi Arabia, Mané’s move from Bayern Munich to the Saudi Pro League has massively boosted his earnings. His philanthropic efforts across Africa have also made him one of the sport’s most respected figures.
7. Mohamed Salah — $55 million (€47 million)
Liverpool’s Egyptian king retains his place among football’s elite earners thanks to his club salary and strong commercial deals with Adidas, Pepsi, Vodafone Egypt, and more. He’s also one of the most-followed athletes on social media in the Arab world.
6. Vinícius Júnior — $60 million (€51 million)
Real Madrid’s samba sensation is quickly becoming the face of La Liga. On top of his improved contract, major endorsements with Nike, EA Sports, and fashion brands place him as one of the sport’s most valuable young icons.
5. Erling Haaland — $80 million (€68 million)
Manchester City’s goal machine remains one of the most lethal strikers in world football. With his unique “Terminator” persona and commercial appeal, Haaland’s income spans both performance-based bonuses and mega-brand deals.
4. Kylian Mbappé — $95 million (€81 million)
Even after his high-profile move to Real Madrid, Mbappé continues to command one of the biggest pay packages in football. His influence extends beyond sport — he’s a cultural icon in France and a leading voice for young athletes worldwide.
3. Karim Benzema — $104 million (€89 million)
The former Ballon d’Or winner continues to cash in following his move to Saudi Arabia. His legacy at Real Madrid, combined with his current mega contract, keeps him firmly among football’s financial elite.
2. Lionel Messi — $130 million (€111 million)
Even at 38, Lionel Messi remains a global commercial powerhouse. His MLS contract with Inter Miami is one of the most unique in sports history — including revenue shares and ownership incentives — while his lifelong partnership with Adidas keeps his brand towering worldwide.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo — $280 million (€239 million)
The king of global earnings. Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia has propelled his financial dominance to unprecedented levels. With unbeatable commercial reach — including Nike, CR7-branded businesses, and social media deals — Ronaldo stands alone as football’s highest-paid player in 2025.
