There’s a lot more to football today than just the tag of being ‘the beautiful game’—it’s an industry worth billions of dollars, powered by astronomical salaries and global endorsements that create a cash flow, that often, cannot be fathomed. Players are not just athletes but icons reshaping markets and captivating audiences worldwide. The Forbes 2024 rankings of the world’s highest-paid footballers reveal how far the sport’s financial ecosystem has evolved, and how newer players have established authority in the game.
From Cristiano Ronaldo’s historic move to Al Nassr to Lionel Messi’s surprise transfer to Miami., the stars at the top of this list showcase how football has become more than just a sport. Here’s an in-depth look at the top earners of 2024 and the trends shaping the sport’s future.
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate the financial side of football with £173 million in annual earnings. His move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia in 2023 wasn’t just a transfer—it was a statement of intent from the Saudi Pro League to cement its position in the global football market.
It doesn’t come as a surprise that Ronaldo is the highest-paid footballer in the world. And it’s not just because he’s one of the greatest ever to lace a pair of boots. Ronaldo’s income stems from both his playing salary and endorsements with Nike and his CR7 empire, which spans hotels, fragrances, and apparel.
Even at the age of 39, Ronaldo continues to fill stadiums and inspire people, which is why Saudi Arabia wanted him. He is a key contributor to the country’s 2030 Vision — a nationwide initiative to become a global power in sports and entertainment.
Lionel Messi’s £103 million income in 2024 is split between his £44 million playing salary at Inter Miami and £59 million in endorsements, making him the sport’s most marketable star. His move to Major League Soccer has not only reignited football interest in the U.S. but also expanded the league’s global reach. Messi’s innovative contract, which includes revenue-sharing deals with Apple TV and Adidas, highlights his influence beyond the pitch.
The 8-time Ballon d’Or winner’s ability to elevate each league that he’s a part of including La Liga, Ligure 1 or the MLS into a global talking point proves that his legacy extends beyond trophies. He is, undoubtedly, one of the most transformative figures in football history.
Neymar Jr.’s £90 million deal with Al-Hilal reflects the growing financial clout of the Saudi Pro League. The Brazilian forward’s salary comes with a host of perks, including private jets, luxury homes, and generous performance bonuses. Off the pitch, Neymar continues to attract major endorsements with Puma and Red Bull, ensuring he remains one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
Also called a ‘Magician’ by his Al-Hilal teammates, Neymar’s move highlights a broader trend of elite players joining emerging leagues, making the Saudi Pro League one of the most exciting developments in global football this year.
Kylian Mbappé’s long-anticipated transfer to Real Madrid is one of 2024’s defining moments. His £71 million annual earnings solidify his position as the heir to Ronaldo and Messi’s throne in La Liga and World Football. As Real Madrid’s marquee player, Mbappé carries the hopes of one of football’s most storied clubs while also expanding his global appeal through partnerships with Nike and Hublot.
At just 25 years old, Mbappé represents the future of football, blending skill, charisma, and commercial savvy into a package that continues to captivate fans worldwide. The Real Madrid star however needs to find his footing in Spain to fulfill all of his potential.
Karim Benzema’s £67 million contract with Al-Ittihad underscores the Saudi Pro League’s ambition to attract top-tier talent. After a Ballon d’Or-winning campaign in 2022, Benzema left Real Madrid for Saudi Arabia, where his experience and professionalism have made him a key figure in the league’s rise.
Benzema’s move is more than just a financial windfall—it again reflects how Saudi clubs are rewriting the rules of global football by offering players contracts that balance career continuity with unprecedented earnings.
Erling Haaland’s £53 million annual earnings highlight his meteoric rise as one of the sport’s brightest stars. The Manchester City striker has not only dominated on the pitch, breaking Premier League goal-scoring records, but also off it, with lucrative endorsements from Nike, Hyperice and PRIME.
At just 24, the self-proclaimed ‘Terminator’ is seen as the next global face of football. His ability to consistently deliver on the biggest stages makes him a marketing dream, and his financial potential is only beginning to unfold.
Vinícius Jr. has emerged as one of Real Madrid’s most valuable players, earning £47 million this year. His electrifying performances have made the Ballon d’Or contender a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the club’s future.
Endorsements with Nike and other brands are further proof of his growing global appeal. At just 23, Vinícius is poised to become one of the sport’s defining stars of the next decade, both in terms of earnings and influence.\
Mohamed Salah’s £43 million annual income underscores his status as one of the Premier League’s brightest stars. At Liverpool, Salah remains a critical player, while his marketability in the Middle East and Europe makes him an endorsement powerhouse. Deals with Adidas and Vodafone amplify his financial reach, positioning him as one of football’s most valuable athletes.
Though speculation about a move to the Saudi Pro League continues, The ‘Egyptian Messi’s’ legacy at Liverpool is already cemented, and his ability to balance elite performances with commercial success ensures his ongoing relevance in global football.
Sadio Mané’s £32 million annual salary at Al-Nassr highlights the growing influence of Saudi clubs in football’s global economy. Beyond his earnings, Mané’s reputation for humility and generosity shines through his philanthropic work in Senegal, where he has invested in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Mané’s story is one of perseverance and purpose, making him not just a football star but also a role model for millions worldwide.
Kevin De Bruyne’s £28 million earnings reflect his importance to Manchester City’s success. Known for his creativity and precision, De Bruyne has redefined what it means to be a midfielder in the modern game. His forward-thinking approach to contract negotiations—using data analytics to argue his value—has made him a trailblazer in how players advocate for themselves.
‘The Ginger Pele’s’ continued dominance in City’s midfield ensures his place among the Premier League’s most valuable players
The 2024 rankings reveal a sport that is increasingly driven by global trends. The Saudi Pro League’s aggressive recruitment has made it a legitimate competitor to Europe’s traditional football powerhouses, while Messi’s move to the U.S. demonstrates the game’s potential in untapped markets.
As younger stars like Haaland and Vinícius Jr. rise, the next decade will see new records set—not just for goals but also for contracts and endorsements. Football’s financial revolution is only beginning, and its stars are the driving force behind it.
