Football is more than a sport. It is a global business. In 2026, the biggest stars are not only winning matches, they are also earning record-breaking money. Fans love them, brands chase them, and clubs pay huge salaries to keep them. Let’s look at the footballers who are making the most money in 2026.
Why Footballers Earn So Much
Football is the most popular sport in the world. Millions of people watch matches every week. Clubs earn money from tickets, TV rights, and sponsorships. Big players bring more fans, more sponsors, and more attention. That is why clubs pay them so much.
But salaries are not the only source of income. Players also earn from endorsements. Companies like Nike, Adidas, Pepsi, and Puma pay millions to use their names and faces. Social media adds another layer. A single Instagram post from a superstar can earn more than most people make in a year.
🏆 Top 5 Highest Paid Footballers in 2026
| Rank | Player | Club (2026) | Annual Earnings (USD) | Key Endorsements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Al Nassr (Saudi Pro League) | $280M | Nike, CR7 Brand |
| 2 | Lionel Messi | Inter Miami (MLS) | $200M | Adidas, Pepsi |
| 3 | Kylian Mbappé | PSG (Ligue 1) | $120M | Nike, EA Sports |
| 4 | Erling Haaland | Manchester City | $85M | Puma, Beats |
| 5 | Mohamed Salah | Liverpool FC | $65M | Adidas, Pepsi |
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo is still the king of football finance. At 41, he plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. His CR7 brand includes clothing, perfumes, gyms, and hotels. He is also one of the most followed people on Instagram, making millions from social media alone.
2. Lionel Messi
Messi is the heart of Inter Miami. His move to MLS changed American football forever. Stadiums are full, TV ratings are high, and merchandise sales are booming. Adidas and Pepsi are his biggest sponsors, and he remains one of the most loved players worldwide.
3. Kylian Mbappé
Mbappé is the future of football. At PSG, he is the main star. His speed, skill, and goals make him priceless. Nike and EA Sports pay him millions. At only 27, his empire is growing fast.
4. Erling Haaland
Haaland is Manchester City’s unstoppable striker. His power and finishing make him one of the best in the world. Puma and Beats are his main sponsors. At 25, he is already a global icon.
5. Mohamed Salah
Salah is Liverpool’s Egyptian King. He is loved in Egypt and across the world. Adidas and Pepsi are his main sponsors. He is also active in charity, helping schools and hospitals in Egypt.
📊 Earnings Chart (2026)
Breakdown:
-
- Ronaldo: Salary $180M, Endorsements $100M
- Messi: Salary $120M, Endorsements $80M
- Mbappé: Salary $80M, Endorsements $40M
- Haaland: Salary $60M, Endorsements $25M
- Salah: Salary $40M, Endorsements $25M
These players are not just athletes. They are global brands.
- Ronaldo and Messi are household names everywhere.
- Mbappé and Haaland represent the new generation.
- Salah inspires millions in Africa and the Middle East.
Their influence goes beyond football. They shape fashion, lifestyle, and even politics. When they speak, millions listen. When they post, millions react.
Football in 2026 is a mix of sport and business. The highest-paid players are not only scoring goals, they are building empires. Ronaldo and Messi still lead, but Mbappé, Haaland, and Salah are rising fast. Their salaries and endorsements show how powerful football has become.
These stars prove one thing: in today’s world, football is more than a game. It is a global industry, and the players are its biggest CEOs.
Note: These numbers come from our research. Other websites may show different amounts because salaries, bonuses, and brand deals can change quickly.
