The Worlds Highest-Paid Soccer Players 2025

Published: Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 5:30 am

Cristiano Ronaldo Tops Soccer's Highest Earners, But Youth Movement Emerges

Cristiano Ronaldo leads the world's highest-paid soccer players for the sixth time in a decade, with projected earnings of $280 million for the 2025-26 season. This figure includes $230 million from his contract with Al Nassr and $50 million from off-field partnerships. The top ten players collectively are set to earn an estimated $945 million.

Ronaldo's earnings far surpass his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, who is projected to earn $130 million. The list includes established stars like Karim Benzema ($104 million), Kylian Mbappé ($95 million), Erling Haaland ($80 million), and Mohamed Salah ($55 million).

However, a shift is underway. Young talents like Jude Bellingham ($44 million) and Lamine Yamal ($43 million) are breaking into the top ten, signaling a youth movement in the sport. Five of the top ten players are 29 or younger, and the average age of the list is just below 30, the lowest it has been in five years.

BNN's Perspective: While Ronaldo's continued dominance is impressive, the emergence of younger players with significant earning potential is a positive sign for the future of the sport. This generational shift suggests a dynamic and evolving landscape for professional soccer, with new stars poised to capture the global spotlight.

Keywords: Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, soccer, highest-paid, earnings, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Karim Benzema, Mohamed Salah, Al Nassr, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Barcelona, Saudi Pro League, Premier League, La Liga, Forbes.

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