Who Makes the Most? Top 10 Highest-Earning Footballers (Haaland, Mbappé & More)
Money talks in modern football and the paydays on this list say a lot about how the game is changing. What follows is a clean, ranked look at the ten players with the highest reported annual salaries in 2025.
These are headline euros, shown so you can see who sits at the very top of the market and how big contracts shape clubs, rivalries and transfer chatter. Read on to see who’s earning the most on and off the pitch in 2025.
The Top 10 Highest Paid Footballers in the World
1. Erling Haaland — €31.7M
Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker for Manchester City, earns this top salary due to his explosive goal-scoring prowess and pivotal role in the team’s success. Since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, he has shattered Premier League records, including the most goals in a single season, helping City secure multiple titles including the Champions League. His physical dominance, speed, and clinical finishing justify his status as one of the world’s most valuable forwards.
2. Kylian Mbappé — €31.3M
Kylian Mbappé, the French superstar now at Real Madrid, commands this high wage thanks to his exceptional talent and marketability. After a high-profile transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, he continues to dazzle with blistering pace, dribbling skills, and goal tallies that have made him a World Cup winner and multiple-time Ligue 1 champion. His global appeal and consistent performances in top competitions make him a cornerstone for any elite club.
3. Harry Kane – €25M
Harry Kane, England’s captain and Bayern Munich’s leading striker, earns €25M annually reflecting his consistent scoring record and leadership. Moving from Tottenham Hotspur in 2023, he quickly adapted to the Bundesliga, breaking records for goals in a debut season and aiding Bayern in domestic and European pursuits. His versatility as a goal scorer and playmaker, combined with his experience in major tournaments, underscores his value.
4. Mohamed Salah – €24.1M
Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s Egyptian winger, secures €24.1M for his relentless attacking contributions and loyalty to the club since 2017. Known as the “Egyptian King,” he has been instrumental in Liverpool’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs, amassing over 200 goals and numerous individual awards like the Golden Boot. His speed, precision, and work ethic continue to drive the team’s offensive strategies.
5. David Alaba – €22.5M
David Alaba, the versatile Austrian defender at Real Madrid, earns €22.5M due to his defensive mastery and adaptability across positions. Joining from Bayern Munich in 2021, he has been key in multiple La Liga and Champions League wins, bringing experience from over a decade of success including treble victories. His leadership, technical skills, and injury resilience make him indispensable to Madrid’s backline.
6. Dušan Vlahović – €22.2M
Dušan Vlahović, the Serbian forward for Juventus, commands €22.2M for his powerful striking abilities and potential as a top goal scorer. Since transferring from Fiorentina in 2022, he has become Juventus’s main attacking threat, contributing crucial goals in Serie A and European competitions. His physical presence, aerial ability, and finishing have positioned him as a rising star in Italian football.
7. Casemiro – €21.1M
Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder at Manchester United, earns €21.1M for his defensive solidity and midfield dominance. After a successful stint at Real Madrid where he won five Champions Leagues, his 2022 move brought stability to United’s squad, with his tackling, passing, and leadership helping in domestic cup wins and league improvements. His experience in high-stakes matches justifies his substantial salary.
8. Virgil van Dijk – €21.1M
Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool’s Dutch center-back, secures €21.1M annually for transforming the team’s defense since joining in 2018. As captain, he has been central to their Premier League and Champions League successes, earning accolades like PFA Player of the Year for his aerial prowess, composure, and organizational skills. His recovery from major injuries and consistent performances highlight his elite status.
9. Manuel Neuer – €21M
Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich’s German goalkeeper, earns €21M reflecting his revolutionary “sweeper-keeper” style and long-term excellence. A club legend since 2011, he has captained Bayern to numerous Bundesliga titles, Champions Leagues, and a treble in 2020. His shot-stopping, distribution, and leadership continue to anchor one of Europe’s top defenses despite his age.
10. Robert Lewandowski – €20.8M
Robert Lewandowski, the Polish striker at Barcelona, commands €20.8M for his prolific goal-scoring record and clinical efficiency. Joining from Bayern Munich in 2022, he quickly won the Pichichi Trophy in La Liga, helping Barcelona reclaim domestic glory. With over 600 career goals, multiple Ballon d’Or nominations, and international records, his experience and finishing ability remain unmatched.
