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By Esther Bassey
Forbes has unveiled its 2025 list of the world’s highest-paid footballers, and once again, Cristiano Ronaldo sits comfortably at the top.
The ranking considers both on-field earnings, salaries, bonuses, image rights and off-field income from endorsements and business ventures.
Here are the top 10 footballers earning the most in 2025:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo — $280 million (Al-Nassr)
At 40, Ronaldo remains the undisputed money king of world football. His lucrative deal with Al-Nassr and multiple global brand endorsements keep him far ahead of everyone else.
2. Lionel Messi — $130 million (Inter Miami)
The Argentine legend continues to earn big in the MLS, combining his massive salary with high-value endorsements from brands like Adidas and Apple.
3. Karim Benzema — $104 million (Al-Ittihad)
The French striker’s Saudi move has proven financially rewarding, with his wages and sponsorships pushing him into the global top three.
4. Kylian Mbappé — $95 million (Real Madrid)
Now wearing Real Madrid’s famous white jersey, Mbappé commands a jaw-dropping salary and still cashes in from Nike and Dior deals.
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5. Erling Haaland — $80 million (Manchester City)
Haaland’s lethal goal-scoring and marketability have made him one of football’s most bankable stars, with big endorsements from Nike and EA Sports.
6. Vinícius Júnior — $60 million (Real Madrid)
The Brazilian star’s rise on and off the pitch continues, as sponsorships and image rights fuel his growing fortune.
7. Mohamed Salah — $55 million (Liverpool)
The Egyptian king remains one of the Premier League’s top earners, thanks to a blend of club wages and high-profile brand partnerships.
8. Sadio Mané — $54 million (Al-Nassr)
Mané’s move to Saudi Arabia has paid off literally, with his contract and endorsements making him one of Africa’s richest athletes.
9. Jude Bellingham — $44 million (Real Madrid)
At just 22, Bellingham’s performances and global appeal have made him a sponsorship magnet and a key Real Madrid earner.
10. Lamine Yamal — $43 million (Barcelona)
Only 18, the Barcelona wonderkid breaks into the top ten for the first time. His rapid rise marks a new era of young stars dominating football’s financial landscape.
