Top Earners List: Ronaldo & Messi Top Highest-Paid Players, Salah Ranks 10th

Sportico's report reveals the highest-paid football players for the 2026-2027 season. Ronaldo leads by a huge margin over Messi, while Salah sits 10th.lly Upstage His Rival?

Ronaldo and Messi Lead, Salah Ranks 10th Among World's Highest-Paid Footballers for 2026-2027

New data published by Sportico and highlighted by Asharq Bloomberg reveals the list of the world's highest-paid football players for the 2026-2027 season. Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo continues his reign at the top with a staggering annual income of $300 million, doubling the earnings of his longtime rival, Lionel Messi.

These extraordinary figures reflect the massive financial impact of superstar transfers to the Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer, alongside lucrative global endorsement and sponsorship deals secured by the game's biggest icons.

Dominant Historic Duo and the Rise of Mbappé and Haaland

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to shatter records both on and off the pitch, leading the financial rankings by a wide margin over Lionel Messi:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo: $300 million annually (Al Nassr).
2. Lionel Messi: $150 million annually (Inter Miami).
3. Kylian Mbappé: $105 million annually (Real Madrid).
4. Erling Haaland: $85 million annually (Manchester City).

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Strong Real Madrid Presence as Salah Rounds Out the Top 10

The rankings feature a strong presence from Real Madrid stars and Europe's rising talent, alongside a prominent Arab presence led by Egyptian star Mohamed Salah:

1. Vinícius Júnior: 5th place with $67 million.
2. Sadio Mané: 6th place with $54 million.
3. Lamine Yamal: Continues his rapid rise in 7th place with $47 million.
4. Jude Bellingham: 8th place with $45 million.
5. Harry Kane: 9th place with $42 million.
6. Mohamed Salah: Rounds out the top 10 with $40 million annually.