Football is not just a game; it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry where top players earn staggering amounts through salaries, endorsements, and bonuses. Over the years, legendary players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have signed record-breaking contracts that redefine the financial landscape of the sport.
In this blog, we explore the 10 biggest contracts in football history, highlighting the massive earnings of these superstars.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al Nassr (€200 Million per Year)
In 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo shocked the world by signing a €200 million per year deal with Saudi club Al Nassr. This made him the highest-paid athlete in the world, including bonuses and commercial rights. His move to the Saudi Pro League marked a new era in football finances.
2. Lionel Messi – Inter Miami (€50 Million per Year + Equity Stake)
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain, Lionel Messi joined MLS side Inter Miami in 2023. His contract includes a €50 million annual salary, profit-sharing from Apple TV’s MLS broadcasts, and a stake in the club, making it one of the most lucrative deals in sports history.
3. Neymar Jr. – Al Hilal (€160 Million per Year)
Neymar’s transfer to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal in 2023 came with a jaw-dropping €160 million per year salary. The Brazilian forward became the second-highest-paid footballer after Ronaldo, thanks to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious football investments.
4. Karim Benzema – Al Ittihad (€100 Million per Year)
Following his legendary career at Real Madrid, Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema joined Al Ittihad in 2023. His €100 million per year contract includes image rights and commercial bonuses, making him one of the highest earners in football.
5. Kylian Mbappé – PSG (€72 Million per Year)
Kylian Mbappé’s 2022 contract renewal with Paris Saint-Germain made him the highest-paid player in Europe. His deal includes a €72 million annual salary, a €100+ million signing bonus, and full image rights, keeping him at the top of football’s financial elite.
6. Cristiano Ronaldo – Juventus (€31 Million per Year)
Before moving to Al Nassr, Ronaldo earned €31 million per year at Juventus from 2018 to 2021. His transfer from Real Madrid was one of the most expensive in history, with Juve paying over €100 million in fees.
7. Lionel Messi – Barcelona (€70 Million per Year)
At his peak with Barcelona, Messi’s last contract (2017-2021) paid him €70 million per year, making him the highest-paid player at the time. The deal included massive loyalty bonuses and endorsement incentives.
8. Gareth Bale – Real Madrid (€30 Million per Year)
Gareth Bale’s time at Real Madrid (2013-2022) saw him earn €30 million per year, including bonuses. His transfer from Tottenham was a then-world-record €100 million deal.
9. Paul Pogba – Manchester United (€29 Million per Year)
Paul Pogba’s return to Manchester United in 2016 came with a €29 million annual salary, making him one of the Premier League’s highest earners before his free transfer to Juventus in 2022.
10. Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City (€25 Million per Year)
Manchester City’s star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne signed a contract extension in 2021 worth €25 million per year, reflecting his status as one of the best midfielders in the world.
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Football’s financial landscape has evolved dramatically, with Saudi Arabia’s Pro League now competing with Europe’s top leagues. Players like Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar have redefined earning potential, making football contracts more lucrative than ever.
Who do you think will sign the next record-breaking deal? Let us know in the comments!