Top 20 Richest Footballers In The World 2023 [Latest!]

Who are the top 20 richest footballers in the world right now in 2023? In this article, we’ll share with you the net worth, weekly salaries, and football clubs of the richest soccer players in the world today.

Football, often known as soccer in other areas of the world, is one of the most popular sports on the planet. Football is a sport that fans from all cultures and countries can participate in together.

Football has produced and continues to produce a significant number of players of the highest caliber. A team is formed by a collection of players, each of whom brings a unique set of skills to the table. The team then plays as a unit under the management and guidance of a manager. This manager gives the team the techniques and strategies they need to beat their competitor.

Sports, especially football in particular has produced a whole lot of millionaires and is still in the process of producing more and more.

In fact, the number of portals claiming to be the most accurate football prediction website popping up almost every day proves that there’s wealth potential in this sport called soccer.

A player’s wage may be determined by his talent or by additional bonuses such as scoring bonuses, clean sheet bonuses, and other bonuses, making one player richer than the other.

Without a doubt, the world’s wealthiest players’ rankings are prone to change due to a variety of circumstances. The list below lists the richest footballers in the world for the year 2023.

We calculated their net worth using data from Celebrity Net Worth and Forbes, as well as their income, sponsorships, and investments.

Top 20 Richest Footballers In The World 2023 List

1. Faiq Bolkiah : $20 billion

• Name: Faiq Bolkiah
• Date of birth: 9 May 1998
• Role-playing: Winger
• Country: United States
• Marital status:  single

Faiq Bolkiah is without a doubt the richest footballer in the world with about $20 billion.

Born on May 9, 1998, Faiq Bolkiah is a professional footballer known for being one of the wealthiest athletes in the world. Hailing from Brunei Darussalam, Faiq has gained significant attention not only for his skills on the field but also for his extraordinary wealth.

Faiq comes from a highly affluent family, with his uncle being the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, who is renowned as one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. The royal family’s vast fortune has inevitably contributed to Faiq’s substantial wealth.

Despite his privileged background, Faiq’s passion for football has been a driving force in his life. He began his football journey in the youth academy of AFC Newbury in England and later signed a youth contract with the prestigious English club, Chelsea FC, at the age of 16.

During his time at Chelsea, Faiq showcased his exceptional skills, earning him recognition as a talented player. He made appearances for Chelsea’s youth teams, displaying his prowess as an attacking midfielder or winger. Faiq’s talent and potential further solidified his reputation as a promising footballer.

Although Faiq’s riches set him apart from most footballers, it is worth noting that his success cannot be solely attributed to his financial background. He has demonstrated his skills, determination, and hard work on the field, earning his place in professional football.

While Faiq Bolkiah’s wealth may be a topic of fascination, it is important to acknowledge his contributions to the sport. As a footballer, he continues to evolve and refine his skills, seeking to make an impact both nationally and internationally.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo : $500 million

• Name: Cristiano Ronaldo
• Date of birth: 5th February 1985
• Role-playing: Forward
• Country: Portugal
• Marital status:  married
• Awards: 5 times FIFA Ballon do’or winner, FIFA and FIFA PRO World Player of the Year The Best FIFA Men’s Player, 3 times UEFA Best Player in Europe Award, UEFA Club Footballer of the Year, UEFA Club Forward of the Year 2 times FIFPro Special Young Player of the Year 4 times PFA Portuguese Player of the Year, 4 times European Golden Shoe FIFA Puskás Award FIFA FIFA Pro World 11, UEFA Nations League Finals Team of the Tournament: 2019 and many other individual titles, and more.

Cristiano Ronaldo is without a doubt the second richest footballer in the world. He has played for Sporting Lisbon in Portugal, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and presently playing for Al-Nassr FC in Saudi Arabia.

This player is one of the greatest of all time, a football G.O.A.T., and any team that gets to get their hands on one generates millions of euros in merchandising sales.

Ronaldo is a footballer that is recognized for his multiple goal-scoring abilities, as well as his legendary jump ability and suspension in the air for a few seconds while waiting for the ball to arrive and yet manage to score with a wonderful header.

In December 30, 2022, Ronaldo became the highest-paid player in football history, signing a two-and-a-half-year contract with Al Nassr, a Saudi Arabian Club, which will see him earn £173million ($210m).

He has played in some of the best football leagues in the world. He’s not just the richest, but also one of the highest-paid players in the world, with a net worth of $500 million.

3. Lionel Messi : $400 million

• Name: Lionel Andrès Messi
• Date of birth: 24th June 1987
• Role-playing: forward
• Country: Argentina
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: 7 times Balon d’or winner, fifa world cup golden ball, fifa world player of the year, best fifa men’s player, European golden shoe, copa America golden ball, UEFA men’s player of the year, UEFA club footballer of the year, UEFA club forward of the year, la liga best player, laliga best forward, pichichi trophy, champion for peace and sports, world soccer greatest 11 of all times, and so many individual trophies. World Cup winner 2022 tournament.

This athlete is one of football’s G.O.A.T.s, a player famed for his blistering speed and ability to dribble past many defenders and into the net.

Messi has spent his whole career at Barcelona, winning numerous titles and amassing millions of dollars in merchandise for the club. He also plays for PSG and now playing for Inter Miami & MLS.

Because of his outstanding performance on the field of play, Lionel Messi gets a large sum of money. He is one of the richest footballers in the world, with a net worth of $400 million.

David Beckham is estimated to be worth $450 million.

4. Neymar Da Silva Santos Jnr : $200 million

• Name: Neymar Da Silva Santos Jnr
• Date of birth: 5th February 1992
• Role-playing:  forward
• Country: Brazil
• Awards: champions league winner, FIFA club world cup, copa do Brazil, FIFA FIFPro world 11, Laliga best player of the year, samba gold, FIFA world cup dream team, FIFA world cup bronze boot, FIFA Puskas award, world soccer young player of the year, Bola De prata, Bola De Ouro and so many other individual titles.

This Brazilian superstar is known for his amazing dribbling skills as he can take on many defenders at a time with wonderful accuracy.

Neymar Jnr has played for the likes of Santos in Brazil, Barcelona, and currently PSG, and has generated enough revenue for them through his merchandise sales. He undoubtedly makes it to this list of the richest footballers in the world.

5. Kylian Mbappe : $200 Million

Kylian Mbappé, born on December 20, 1998, is a French professional footballer widely recognized as one of the wealthiest athletes in the world. Renowned for his incredible speed, technical prowess, and goal-scoring ability, Mbappé has become a global sensation both on and off the field.

Mbappé’s rise to stardom accelerated during his time at AS Monaco. He made his professional debut in 2015, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to play in a league match. His electrifying performances on the field attracted widespread acclaim, drawing the attention of football enthusiasts worldwide.

In 2017, Mbappé’s career skyrocketed when he joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), a prominent French club. The transfer fee, reported to be one of the highest in history, solidified his status as one of the world’s most expensive footballers. Since then, Mbappé has continued to excel, forming an integral part of PSG’s formidable attacking force.

6. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – $190 million

• Name: Zlatan Ibrahimovic
• Date of birth: 3rd October 1981
• Role-playing: Forward
• Country: Sweden
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: AC Milan hall of fame, PSG hall of fame, Balon D’or 4th place, Coupe De la Ligue man of the match, Ligue  1 goal of the year, Ligue 1 foreign player of the year, SortAccord play for change Award, GQ Men of the year, Supercopa Italia man of the match, Serie A goal of the year, Seria A footballer of the year, and so many individual titles not listed above.

Next on the list of the richest footballers in the world is Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Zlatan is one of the greatest footballers of our time.

As a unique player with numerous goal-scoring abilities, Zlatan has played so many clubs, the likes of Manchester United, Barcelona, AC Milan, Inter Milan, and so many other clubs, and in each club pulling in enough revenues for the club through merchandise sales.

At his age, Zlatan is still delivering goals and winning games for his team. He is a player many managers would want to have in their books.

7. Wayne Rooney : $180 million

• Name: Wayne Mark Rooney
• Date of birth: 24th October 1985
• Role playing: forward and midfield
• Country: England
• Transfer worth: retired
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: UEFA European u-17 championship golden player, PFA player of the year, PFA fans player of the year, PFA young player of the year, PFA team of the year, FWA footballer of the year, Manchester United player of the year, Golden boy award, FIFPro young player of the year, and numerous individual titles.

At a young age, Wayne Rooney was a name every manager wanted in their books. In his career, he has won so many titles for his club and also gotten so many individual titles.

Wayne Rooney’s net worth in 2023 is $180 million, and he is worthy of being on the list of the world’s richest footballers right now.

He has spent most of his career playing for Manchester United scoring amazing goals and win trophies for United, he later left England to MLS and then returned to England and now working as a manager of D.C. United.

8. Gareth Bale : $150 million

• Name: Gareth Frank Bale
• Date of birth: 16th July 1989
• Role playing: Forward
• Country: Wales
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: UEFA team of the year, Welsh footballer of the year award, Tottenham youngest player award, Tottenham player of the year award, UEFA Champions League squad of the season, football manager team of the decade, PFA team of the year, premier league team of the year, with so many other individual titles.

Gareth Bale, born on July 16, 1989, is a Welsh professional footballer who has established himself as one of the wealthiest players in the world. Known for his exceptional speed, technical ability, and powerful left foot, Bale has enjoyed a remarkable career on and off the field.

Bale’s football journey began in Cardiff, Wales, where he showcased his immense talent from a young age. His potential was quickly recognized, and he joined the Southampton youth academy at the age of nine. After impressing at the youth level, Bale made his senior debut for Southampton at the tender age of 16.

His performances at Southampton attracted the attention of top clubs, and in 2007, Bale made a high-profile move to Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League. It was at Tottenham that Bale’s talent truly flourished, as he transformed into one of the most exciting players in world football. His blistering speed, remarkable dribbling skills, and ability to score stunning goals captivated fans around the globe.

Bale’s success at Tottenham led to a record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid in 2013, making him the most expensive footballer at the time. The move to the Spanish giants further elevated his status, and he became an integral part of a star-studded team. During his time at Real Madrid, Bale achieved numerous accolades, including winning multiple UEFA Champions League titles.

Gareth Bale’s journey as one of the richest footballers in the world serves as a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. While his financial success is undeniable, it is his impact on the pitch and his contributions to the sport that have solidified his status as one of the game’s true icons. Bale’s story is an inspiration to aspiring footballers, highlighting the rewards that can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering passion for the beautiful game. Today, in 2023, Gareth Bale has retired from National and league football enjoying most of his time playing golf.

9. Mesut Ozil : $120 million

• Name: Mesut Ozil
• Date of birth: 15th October 1988
• Role playing: Midfield
• Country: Germany
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: kicker attacking midfielder of the year, UEFA European Championship team of. The gear, German player of the year, Laureus media award, PFA fans player of the month, Arsenal player of the season, with many other individual titles.

The German player signed a deal with Arsenal which fetches him $24 million every year before moving to Fenerbahçe and finally retiring from professional football. Ozil is a player known for his amazing play-making skills. He is one beyond doubt one of the richest footballers in the world.

10. Andres Iniesta : $120 million

Andres Iniesta, a Spanish professional football player, started his career at the age of 10 when he joined the Albacete youth team. Iniesta was voted the Nike Premier Cup’s player of the year in 1999 after helping Barcelona’s Under-15 team to victory.

As of 2023, Andres Iniesta is predicted to have an estimated net worth of $120 Million, ranking him as the 10th wealthiest soccer player in the world.

11. Eden Hazard : $100 million

• Name: Eden Michael Hazard
• Date of birth: 7th January 1991
• Role playing: winger and attacking midfield
• Country: Belgium
• Marital status: married
• Awards: IFFHS men’s world team, FIFA world cup fantasy team, ESM team of the year, UEFA team of the year, PFA premier league team of the year, FIFA FIFPro world 11, UNFP League 1 team of the season, with many more outstanding individual trophies.

The former Chelsea boy was known for his amazing ability to drive at defenders, taking them on and scoring amazing goals, join Real Madrid with a fee of $125.5 million, earning him a salary of $250,000 weekly. Signing a 5-year deal and has amazing bonuses, Eden Hazard net worth in 2023 is now $100 million.

12. Mohamed Salah : $90 Million

Mohamed Salah, born on June 15, 1992, is an Egyptian professional footballer who has risen to become one of the wealthiest footballers in the world. Known for his exceptional speed, clinical finishing, and incredible goal-scoring ability, Salah has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the world of football.

Salah’s football journey began in his hometown of Nagrig, Egypt, where he developed a passion for the sport at a young age. He honed his skills playing for local youth teams before making his professional debut for El Mokawloon, an Egyptian club, at the age of 17.

In 2014, Salah made a high-profile transfer to Chelsea in the English Premier League. Despite limited playing time at Chelsea, Salah’s performances caught the eye of AS Roma, and he moved to the Italian club on loan in 2015. Salah’s time at Roma proved to be a turning point in his career, as he flourished and established himself as a top-class winger.

In 2017, Salah’s career reached new heights when he joined Liverpool FC. The move would prove to be a game-changer for both Salah and the club. In his debut season with Liverpool, Salah shattered records, scoring a staggering number of goals and helping the club reach the UEFA Champions League final. His remarkable performances earned him numerous accolades, including the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and the Premier League Golden Boot and as well boost his net worth.

It is important to know as well that Mohamed Salah tops the list of the richest footballers in Africa.

13.Robert Lewandowski : $85 Million

• Name: Robert Lewandowski
• Date of birth: 21st August 1988
• Role playing: Foward
• Country: Poland
• Transfer worth: €60 million
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: Ekstraklasa top goalscorer, Ekstraklasa best player, polish sport personality of the year, Bayern Munich player of the year, DFB-Pokal top goalscorer, Polish player of the year, kicker Bundesliga team of the season, VDV Bundesliga team of the season, and other amazing awards.

The Polish footballer is a footballer known for scoring amazing goals, he just has a way of finding the back of the net. Today, he currently plays for Barcelona. He is one of the richest footballers in the world.

Lewandowski’s football journey began in Poland, where he showcased his talent at various youth clubs before making his professional debut for Znicz Pruszków in 2006. His performances quickly caught the attention of top clubs, and he joined Lech Poznań, a prominent Polish club, in 2008.

It was at Lech Poznań that Lewandowski’s career truly took off. He proved to be a prolific goal-scorer, leading the club to success in the Polish league and earning recognition as one of the brightest talents in European football.

14. Gerard Pique : $80 Million

Piqué’s football journey began at a young age when he joined the renowned La Masia youth academy of FC Barcelona. His talent and dedication quickly became apparent, and he progressed through the ranks of the club’s youth system, honing his skills and developing a deep understanding of the game.

In 2004, Piqué made his first-team debut for Manchester United in the English Premier League. Although his time at Manchester United was relatively brief, it provided him with valuable experience and helped him mature as a player. Piqué returned to his boyhood club, FC Barcelona, in 2008, and this move marked the turning point in his career.

At Barcelona, Piqué formed a formidable defensive partnership with Carles Puyol and later with Javier Mascherano. His contributions to the team were instrumental in their success, as Barcelona dominated both the domestic and European stages. Piqué helped the club win numerous league titles, domestic cups, and the prestigious UEFA Champions League trophy.

15. Sergio Ramos : $80 million

• Name: Sergio Ramos Garcia
• Date of birth: 30th March 1986
• Role playing: Defender
• Country: Spain
• Marital status: Married
• Awards: L’Équipe’s team of the year, Balon d’or dream team, EA sports team of the year, Luis Aragones award, Castro performance index, IFFHS world team of the decade, IFFHS men’s world team, IFFHS UEFA team of the decade, and many outstanding individual trophies.

Ramos has competed in two World Cups and two European Championships. He has also won one World Cup and two European Championships and currently plays for PSG in France.

16. David De Gea : $75 million

In 2011, De Gea made a high-profile move to Manchester United in the English Premier League, becoming one of the most expensive goalkeepers in history at the time. Despite a challenging start to his career in England, De Gea’s talent gradually shone through. He became a key figure in Manchester United’s defense, consistently delivering outstanding performances and earning numerous accolades along the way.

Off the field, De Gea’s success has translated into significant financial rewards. He has secured lucrative endorsement deals with prestigious brands such as Adidas, adding to his wealth. De Gea’s marketability, combined with his on-field excellence and popularity among fans, has made him one of the richest footballers in the world.

17. Frank Ribery : $70

Franck Ribéry, born on April 7, 1983, is a French professional footballer who achieved remarkable success on the field and established himself as one of the wealthiest players in the world. Known for his exceptional dribbling skills, agility, and creativity, Ribéry has left an indelible mark on the game of football.
Ribéry’s football journey began in his native France, where he played for several clubs, including Boulogne and Metz. However, it was during his time at Marseille that Ribéry’s talent truly flourished. His performances caught the eye of top European clubs, and he earned a move to Bayern Munich in 2007.

At Bayern Munich, Ribéry showcased his incredible skill set and played a crucial role in the club’s success. His exceptional performances on the wing helped Bayern secure numerous domestic and international titles, including several Bundesliga championships and the UEFA Champions League trophy. Ribéry’s ability to create scoring opportunities and score crucial goals made him a fan favorite and a key figure in Bayern Munich’s dominance during his time at the club.

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18. Luis Suarez : $70 million

In 2011, Suárez made a significant transfer to Liverpool FC in the English Premier League. At Liverpool, he reached new heights, forming a lethal strike partnership with fellow attacker Daniel Sturridge. Suárez’s goal-scoring prowess and creativity helped Liverpool challenge for the league title and earned him multiple individual accolades, including the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award.

In 2014, Suárez made another high-profile move, joining Barcelona in Spain. At Barcelona, he formed an iconic attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Neymar, known as MSN. Together, they spearheaded one of the most formidable attacking forces in football history. Suárez’s contributions were instrumental in Barcelona’s success, winning numerous domestic titles, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

19. Sergio Aguero : $70 million

In the realm of football, Agüero carved out a legacy as one of the finest marksmen of his era. His prowess in front of goal was nothing short of extraordinary, and he showcased an innate ability to find the back of the net with remarkable precision. Such was his impact on the pitch that he earned the distinction of being hailed as one of the premier strikers in the history of the sport.

But it was on the hallowed grounds of the English Premier League that Agüero’s name was etched in golden letters. For an awe-inspiring decade, he donned the colors of the venerable Manchester City, weaving dreams and making history with each match. His tenure at the club was nothing short of a footballing odyssey, as he led his teammates and the passionate fans on a journey filled with joy and triumph.

During his illustrious stint with Manchester City, Agüero achieved feats that transcended the boundaries of the sport. He surged past numerous milestones, amassing an awe-inspiring goal tally that adorned the record books. Time and again, he delivered breathtaking performances that left spectators in awe, demonstrating a rare combination of technical finesse and an unyielding hunger for success

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20. David Luiz : $62 Million

David Luiz secure the number 20 on the list of our richest footballers in the world.

David Luiz Moreira Marinho, commonly known as David Luiz, is a Brazilian professional footballer who has made a significant impact on the field and has emerged as one of the wealthiest footballers in the world. Born on April 22, 1987, Luiz’s journey from humble beginnings to global stardom is a testament to his talent and determination.

Luiz’s football career began in his native Brazil, where he showcased his defensive skills and technical prowess. His impressive performances at the club level earned him a move to Benfica, a prestigious Portuguese club, in 2007. During his time at Benfica, Luiz’s commanding presence in defense and ability to initiate attacking plays caught the attention of top European clubs.

In 2011, Luiz made a significant transfer to Chelsea FC in the English Premier League. At Chelsea, he quickly established himself as a key figure in their defense, with his fearless style of play and exceptional long-range passing ability. Luiz’s contributions were instrumental in the club’s success, including winning the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League trophy.

Throughout his career, Luiz has also represented the Brazilian national team with distinction. His performances on the international stage, including winning the Copa America, have solidified his status as one of Brazil’s top defenders.

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Richest Footballers In the World (summary)

Football payers are well compensated for their services and many fans outside the football world thinks some stars are paid more than their output for whichever teams they represent.

Now, you’re well aware of the 20 richest footballers in the world. What did you think of this list of the richest soccer players in the world? Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to share this post.

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