This article will tell you about some of the highest-earning footballers in 2023
Football fans around the world have been stunned by Neymar’s move to Saudi Arabia in a spectacular trade. During the current transfer window, many European superstars have left for the Saudi Pro League’s cash-strapped clubs.
On Tuesday, Neymar agreed to terms with Al Hilal on a two-year contract that will pay him 100 million Euros per season.
Explaining such a move, Neymar said, “I have achieved a lot in Europe and enjoyed special times, but I have always wanted to be a global player and test myself with new challenges and opportunities in new places. I want to write new sporting history, and the Saudi Pro League has tremendous energy and quality players at the moment.”
Sadio Mane, Karim Banzema, and Roberto Firmino have all relocated to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi was connected to Al Hilal before deciding to join MLS club Inter Miami.
10. Kalidou Koulibaly
While at Napoli, Koulibaly was regarded as one of the top centre-backs in the world. However, after moving to Chelsea, his popularity dwindled. Following an unsuccessful season, Al Hilal swooped in with a 20 million Pound transfer fee, as well as a 30 million Euro yearly wage.
9. Riyad Mahrez
Last season, Mahrez won the triple with Manchester City, but he wasn’t a key cog in Pep Guardiola’s starting XI and spent a lot of time on the bench.
In the ongoing summer transfer season, the Leicester City icon joined Saudi club Al Ahli for a salary of 35 million Euros per year.
8. Sadio Mane
Sadio Mane, a Senegalese attacker, departed Liverpool for Bayern Munich last season. However, his time in Germany did not go well, and the club forced him away during the current transfer window. Al Nassr capitalized on the circumstance by signing the former Southampton star for 40 million Euros per year.
7. Jordan Henderson
Jordan Henderson’s stint at Liverpool came to an end following a disappointing 2022-23 season. The former Liverpool captain was an important component of Jurgen Klopp’s strategy and has joined Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq on a 40 million Euro per year contract.
6. Lionel Messi
The Argentine departed PSG as a free agent after an unceremonious exit. Initially, he was connected to his beloved club Barcelona as well as Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal.
However, he ultimately chose to join MLS club Inter Miami, which is co-owned by David Beckham. He will receive an additional 45 million Euros per year in addition to his base income.
When he signed the contract, he received club shares, a revenue share of the Apple MLS season pass, Adidas revenue shares, and a subsidized opportunity to purchase a team in the MLS after retirement.
5. Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe, the lone European player on this list, was anticipated to leave PSG next year. However, according to rumours, he may prolong his contract and not join Real Madrid. According to reports, the 2018 World Cup winner earns 70 million Euros per season in France.
4. N’Golo Kante
Everyone was surprised by the French midfielder’s departure to Al Ittihad, given that he still had a lot to contribute in the top European leagues. In the Saudi Pro League, the former Leicester City star now earns 100 million Euros every year.
3. Neymar Jr.
The Brazilian superstar’s move to Al Hilal has astonished fans. Al Hilal would not have acquired Neymar if Messi had not moved to Inter Miami. He presently makes 100 million Euros per year.
2. Karim Benzema
With his move to Al Ittihad, the 35-year-old Real Madrid great grabbed the jackpot, earning 200 million Euros each year. Real Madrid will be severely missed in his absence in Spain.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo’s base salary with Al Nassr, which he signed after the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is 200 million Euros. Ronaldo’s contract with Manchester United was terminated following an ill-fated interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticized the club’s hierarchy. He and Al Nassr finished second in the league last season.
