Top 10 Footballers with the Highest Earnings in 2025
Football has long been more than just a game; it’s a global phenomenon that generates immense wealth. For the sport’s biggest stars, their talent on the pitch translates into extraordinary financial rewards. In 2025, the following ten players are leading the pack in earnings, thanks to their impressive contracts, sponsorship deals, and entrepreneurial ventures. Let’s explore the top 10 highest-earning footballers, ranked from 10 to 1.
10. Sadio Mané
Estimated Earnings: $35 million
Sadio Mané’s remarkable rise in football is matched only by his humanitarian efforts. Known for building schools and hospitals in Senegal, he remains a beloved figure globally. His substantial income comes from his club salary and endorsements with renowned brands.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Club salary
- Sponsored partnerships with global sports brands
Learn more about Sadio Mané’s charitable efforts.
9. Erling Haaland
Estimated Earnings: $40 million
Erling Haaland has become a household name, known for his incredible goal-scoring ability. At just 24, he’s a force to be reckoned with in European football, earning a massive salary and attracting high-profile endorsements.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Club salary at Manchester City
- Endorsements with Nike and other major brands
8. Robert Lewandowski
Estimated Earnings: $42 million
As one of the most consistent players of his generation, Lewandowski’s excellence on the pitch continues to pay off. His financial portfolio includes a mix of lucrative salaries and sponsorship deals with international companies.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Club salary
- Sponsorship deals, including partnerships with Huawei
Discover Lewandowski’s career milestones.
7. Neymar Jr.
Estimated Earnings: $50 million
Neymar’s flair and charisma make him a marketing powerhouse. In addition to his massive club salary, he earns millions from endorsements with global brands, cementing his place among the top earners in football.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Club salary
- Endorsements with Puma, Red Bull, and others
See Neymar’s impact on and off the field.
6. Kylian Mbappé
Estimated Earnings: $60 million
Kylian Mbappé has redefined what it means to be a football superstar. His unmatched speed and skill have made him the face of modern football, and his earnings reflect his status as a global icon.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Record-breaking salary at Paris Saint-Germain
- Endorsements with Nike and luxury brands
5. Kevin De Bruyne
Estimated Earnings: $62 million
De Bruyne’s vision and precision on the field are unrivaled. These skills have earned him a significant salary and lucrative endorsement deals with international sportswear companies.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Salary at Manchester City
- Deals with leading sports brands
4. Cristiano Ronaldo
Estimated Earnings: $70 million
Even at 41, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to break records—both on and off the pitch. His salary in Saudi Arabia’s Pro League, combined with his CR7 brand and endorsements, ensures his spot among football’s wealthiest players.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Salary in Saudi Arabia’s Pro League
- CR7 brand and sponsorships
3. Lionel Messi
Estimated Earnings: $75 million
Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami hasn’t slowed down his earnings. He remains one of the sport’s most marketable players with a lucrative club salary and endorsement deals.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Salary at Inter Miami
- Endorsements with Adidas, Pepsi, and other global brands
2. Mohamed Salah
Estimated Earnings: $80 million
Mohamed Salah’s influence extends beyond football. As a global ambassador for major brands, he’s earned a reputation as one of the most marketable athletes in the world.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Salary at Liverpool
- Deals with Adidas, Vodafone, and other leading companies
1. Kylian Mbappé
Estimated Earnings: $85 million
Sitting at the top of the list, Kylian Mbappé continues to set new standards in football earnings. His record-breaking salary and expansive endorsement portfolio make him the highest-paid player in the world for 2025.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Salary at Paris Saint-Germain
- Endorsements with global luxury and sports brands
Learn more about Mbappé’s career and endorsements.
Why These Players Command Such High Earnings
The footballers on this list aren’t just athletes but global icons. Their combination of skill, charisma, and marketability allows them to secure lucrative deals both on and off the pitch. As football continues to grow as a commercial juggernaut, these players are setting benchmarks for financial success.