Top 5 highest paid footballers in the world in 2023

The role of money in football has risen exponentially in football, with big money being spent on transfers and wages. In this article, we will take a look at the top ten highest paid footballers in the world in 2023.

Top 5 highest paid footballers in 2023 

5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool – $53m/£47m) 

The Egyptian recently became Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League, and was also handed the most expensive contract in the club’s history. He kicks off the top five in terms of the highest earners in the world. 

4. Neymar (PSG – $87m/£78m) 

Following his record €222 million transfer to PSG, Neymar has remained one of the best-paid footballers in the world consistently. His recent extension offers him £78 million after taxes, making him the highest earning Brazilian in the world. 

3. Lionel Messi (PSG – $120m/£108m) 

Messi might have won The Best Men’s Player Award for 2022, but he isn’t quite the best paid player at PSG. Regardless, he earns a massive amount through sponsorships and endorsements which take the value up to £108 million. 

2. Kylian Mbappe (PSG — $128m/£115m) 

PSG scrambled to offer Mbappe a massive financial deal this past summer to extend his contract. As a result, he was the highest paid footballer in Europe before one of his idols overtook him by exiting the continental football picture. 

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr — $214m/£173m)

After his free transfer to Al Nassr following the World Cup, Ronaldo is the highest paid footballer in the world. The Portuguese legend earns a total of £173 million after image rights, salary and sponsorships are taken into account.