Football has always been more than just a game; it is a global business generating astronomical wealth for the world’s top players. By 2025, some stars have taken their on-field success and translated it into extraordinary fortunes off the pitch. Between multi-million-pound contracts, brand endorsements, and personal business ventures, these athletes have amassed wealth that few can imagine.
Some players have retired but continue to earn from their investments and media presence. Others remain active and are constantly adding to their fortunes week by week. This article highlights the ten Richest Footballers in 2025, examining their salaries, endorsements, investments, and total net worth. The difference between the top and the rest of the list is significant, yet all have achieved financial success that is nearly unattainable for most..
10. Kylian Mbappé – £180 Million
Kylian Mbappé remains one of the most influential Richest Footballers at just 26 years old. His transfer to Real Madrid in 2024 set records and secured him a massive salary that contributes heavily to his net worth. Mbappé’s influence extends beyond his club, with endorsements from Nike, Hublot, and other global brands generating additional millions annually. Despite being in the middle phase of his career, he has already built a financial base that surpasses many retired legends.
Mbappé’s wealth is a combination of on-field success and smart commercial partnerships. His image, skills, and marketability make him a highly sought-after player in both football and business circles. Fans admire him not only for his pace, finishing, and vision but also for his ability to maintain a consistent presence in the global spotlight. With years still ahead, Mbappé’s financial trajectory is expected to rise, solidifying his position among the top Richest Footballers worldwide.
9. Zlatan Ibrahimović – £130 Million
Zlatan Ibrahimović, retired but ever-relevant, continues to feature among the Richest Footballers in 2025. Even off the pitch, Zlatan’s brand remains strong, with sponsorships from global companies and ventures in property, tech, and fashion. His larger-than-life personality and enduring influence on football culture ensure that he remains a high-earning individual.
The 43-year-old Swedish icon has successfully translated his legendary career into sustained financial success. Media appearances, football punditry, and personal businesses keep his income growing steadily. Despite no longer playing professionally, Ibrahimović remains a cultural and commercial powerhouse. His ability to maintain relevance through investments and endorsements demonstrates that financial success for footballers can extend well beyond retirement.
8. Karim Benzema – £140 Million
Karim Benzema, currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, has added significantly to his net worth, placing him among the Richest Footballers. The former Real Madrid striker signed one of the highest-paid contracts in the football world, complemented by commercial deals and luxury investments. His career at the elite level has translated into long-term financial security, ensuring that Benzema remains financially influential even in the later stages of his career.
Benzema’s fortune is a result of a blend of on-field performance, shrewd financial decisions, and endorsement agreements. Investments in property and other ventures have further strengthened his net worth. The French striker’s global appeal, both as a player and public figure, ensures he continues to be a brand ambassador and a highly marketable personality in football.
7. Wayne Rooney – £170 Million
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer, has also secured his place among the Richest Footballers. Beyond his career earnings as a player, Rooney has continued generating income as a coach and through various commercial ventures. Investments in real estate and brand collaborations have solidified his financial standing, making him one of England’s wealthiest football icons.
Rooney’s legacy in football combined with business acumen has allowed him to maintain financial relevance. His role as a coach and ambassador keeps him in the public eye, while his previous salary and image rights provide a continued source of revenue. For many, Rooney exemplifies how top players can transition successfully from sport to business while staying among the Richest Footballers globally.
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6. Erling Haaland – £170 Million
Erling Haaland, currently starring for Manchester City, is one of the most financially successful Richest Footballers in 2025. The Norwegian forward earns a massive salary from City, and his commercial deals with Puma and other global brands add significantly to his net worth. Haaland’s ability to consistently score goals in the Premier League and Champions League makes him not only a top performer but also a highly marketable athlete.
Haaland’s fortune stems from both his on-field dominance and off-field endorsements. His age and potential mean his wealth is likely to grow even further in the coming years. With a combination of goal-scoring prowess, global recognition, and commercial opportunities, Haaland represents the new generation of Richest Footballers who are maximizing both sporting and financial success.
5. Neymar Jr. – £183 Million
Neymar Jr., currently at Al-Hilal, continues to rank high among the Richest Footballers. Despite injuries and fluctuating form, the Brazilian forward commands a massive salary and benefits from global endorsements with Puma, Red Bull, and Netflix. Neymar’s personal brand and high-profile lifestyle contribute significantly to his fortune.
The 33-year-old’s commercial activities, social media presence, and on-field performances ensure continuous financial growth. Neymar exemplifies how combining sporting excellence with brand management can lead to a sustained position among the Richest Footballers. His influence extends beyond football, making him a global icon in sports and business circles.
4. David Beckham – £370 Million
David Beckham remains a towering figure among the Richest Footballers even years after retiring. The Englishman has transformed his legacy into a commercial empire, owning Inter Miami and securing brand partnerships across fashion, media, and beverages. His investments in real estate and business ventures continue to generate substantial revenue.
Beckham’s ability to maintain his profile as a global icon demonstrates that footballers can build wealth long after their playing days. His commercial acumen, combined with a loyal fan base and media presence, ensures that he remains one of the most influential and wealthy figures in football. Beckham’s story is a prime example of sustainable financial success among Richest Footballers.
3. Lionel Messi – £470 Million
Lionel Messi, currently at Inter Miami, continues to dominate both on and off the field, securing his place among the Richest Footballers. His MLS contract, coupled with endorsements from Adidas, Apple, and broadcasting shares, contributes to his extraordinary net worth. Messi’s previous contracts with Barcelona and PSG were among the most lucrative in football history.
The Argentine’s financial success is also attributed to smart investments and business ventures. Messi’s brand extends worldwide, from clothing lines to media appearances, ensuring that his wealth continues to grow even as he approaches the final stages of his career. His influence in football and business alike makes him a benchmark for aspiring Richest Footballers.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo – £680 Million
Cristiano Ronaldo, playing for Al-Nassr, ranks among the top Richest Footballers thanks to his on-field success and unparalleled brand management. Ronaldo’s contracts, endorsements, CR7 Hotels, clothing lines, and perfume business all contribute to his immense fortune. At 40, he remains active and continues to generate significant income from multiple sources.
Ronaldo’s discipline, global popularity, and business acumen ensure that his financial empire keeps growing. His influence spans football, media, and commerce, making him one of the most financially powerful athletes in history. Ronaldo’s example highlights how combining performance with personal branding creates a sustainable wealth model for Richest Footballers.
1. Faiq Bolkiah – £14.67 Billion
Faiq Bolkiah tops the list of Richest Footballers in 2025 by a massive margin. Although his football career never reached the same heights as his peers, his status as the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei gives him access to enormous family wealth. Bolkiah’s fortune comes from oil, property, and businesses tied to the Brunei monarchy.
The 26-year-old’s footballing endeavors at academies like Chelsea and Leicester City are overshadowed by his family fortune. With a net worth of £14.67 billion, he surpasses every other player on this list. Bolkiah’s position illustrates that in some cases, wealth in football is not solely earned through the sport itself, but also through familial and external assets, making him the ultimate example among the Richest Footballers worldwide.
FAQs
Q1: Who is the richest footballer in 2025?
Faiq Bolkiah tops the list with a net worth of £14.67 billion, largely due to his family fortune.
Q2: Which active player is the richest in 2025?
Cristiano Ronaldo, currently at Al-Nassr, is the richest active footballer with a net worth of £680 million.
Q: How do retired players remain among the richest footballers?
Retired players like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, and Zlatan Ibrahimović earn through endorsements, businesses, and investments, allowing them to maintain high net worths.
Q: Are all the richest footballers top performers on the field?
Not necessarily. Some, like Faiq Bolkiah, are wealthy due to family assets, while others, like Mbappé and Ronaldo, earn through both performance and commercial deals.
Q: Is Cristiano Ronaldo richer than Lionel Messi in 2025?
Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth of £680 million currently surpasses Lionel Messi’s £470 million, mainly due to his diverse business ventures, CR7 brand, and lucrative contracts.