The Saudi Pro League has swiftly reshaped the football economics landscape in an unprecedented manner. Significant player acquisitions, enormous salaries, and an influx of oil wealth have captured international attention—marking a financial evolution that has left some club owners and players astonished.
Currently, top earners in Saudi Arabia command salaries that rival those of Premier League superstars. The shift began with Cristiano Ronaldo in 2023, leading to an influx of talent that includes World Cup champions and Premier League legends, creating an unparalleled blend of skill and wealth in the league.
We have carefully examined the contracts and financial details to compile a list of the league’s highest-paid players. Let’s explore this elite group.
10. Aymeric Laporte – €24,500,000
Laporte, formerly a vital component of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, saw his prominence diminish with the rise of players like John Stones and Ruben Dias. In August 2023, he made headlines by signing with Al-Nassr, embarking on a fresh journey away from his past triumphs. While his Wikipedia may still need updates, the Saudi Pro League is clearly committed to establishing its presence on the global football stage.
Chasing after financial gain isn’t a crime; earning €24.5 million annually as a centre-back is quite admirable.
9. Aleksandar Mitrovic – €25,000,000
Mitrovic has always excelled through his physicality, easily overpowering defenders while consistently finding the back of the net. He brought this same form to the Saudi Pro League, scoring an impressive 40 goals in 43 matches for Al Hilal in his debut season—a statistic reminiscent of his phenomenal Championship performance with Fulham.
While some argue that the Saudi league mirrors a less fierce version of its domestic counterparts, complete with palm trees and sweltering heat, speculation about a potential return to the Premier League—rumored to involve teams like Everton—lingers. For now, however, Mitrovic seems perfectly satisfied to showcase his talents in Riyadh.
8. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic – €25,000,000
Milinkovic-Savic had long been a prominent figure in discussions about Europe’s elite, with top clubs like Manchester United, Juventus, and PSG showing interest. Ultimately, the Lazio star opted to move to Saudi Arabia in July 2023, joining Al Hilal for around €40 million.
At only 30 years old, he continues to exhibit the same physical capabilities that earned him acclaim in Rome, even though his performances may attract less scrutiny now.
7. N’Golo Kante – €25,000,000
Few athletes invoke as much admiration as N’Golo Kante. A two-time Premier League champion, Champions League winner, and World Cup hero, he represents the epitome of humility in sport.
Originating from modest beginnings in France to Malian parents, Kante remains grounded. He actively gives back, including efforts to build schools and support families in his homeland. His lucrative earnings at Al Ittihad, exceeding €25 million, have allowed him to enhance his lifestyle, upgrading from his old Mini Cooper to something more lavish.
6. Ivan Toney – €25,510,000
Toney is a dynamic forward—troublesome for defenders, a lethal finisher, and a former observer during a brief suspension. After a standout Championship season and 20 goals in the Premier League, he returned to form with a spectacular free kick during his first match back, securing a place in England’s Euro 2024 roster.
Upon joining Al Ahli for approximately €40 million, he became the sole current England international in the league. He replicated his impressive scoring performance from Brentford in his first Saudi season, adding excitement every time he steps onto the pitch.
5. Kalidou Koulibaly – €34,700,000
Koulibaly’s ascent to wealth is rooted in his father’s years of labor in a Senegal textile mill, working diligently to provide better opportunities for their family. Despite his success, he remains grounded and aware of his humble beginnings.
As one of Al Hilal’s key players, he earns a substantial salary reflecting his leadership and defensive prowess. However, even with considerable wealth and recognition, he exemplifies the values instilled in him during those formative years.
4. Sadio Mane – €40,000,000
Mane electrified audiences during his tenure with Liverpool, accumulating 120 goals and gathering every major accolade possible. His journey transitioned through Bayern Munich before arriving at Al-Nassr, where he has continued his scoring streak with 37 goals across 97 matches.
Though he may not shine as brightly as he did during his prime, he is dedicated to his community back in Senegal, investing millions into schools and hospitals, demonstrating a harmonious balance between affluence and responsibility.
3. Karim Benzema – €50,000,000
Benzema entered Saudi Arabia adorned with accolades including a Ballon d’Or and five Champions League trophies. He solidified his impact by scoring 21 goals during his latest season with Al-Ittihad, contributing significantly to their league and cup success.
At 37, he remains formidable, with career statistics that impress: nearly 1,000 matches, over 500 goals, and more than 200 assists. His substantial €50 million annual salary seems well-earned given his vast contributions.
2. Riyad Mahrez – €52,200,000
A unique achievement holder, Mahrez is one of the few players to have lifted the Premier League trophy with two separate clubs. His accolades are impressive, justifying his annual earnings of €52 million. Since signing with Al-Ahli in 2023, he has also added the AFC Champions League title to his impressive résumé while demonstrating he can still outpace defenders.
Adapting from the UK’s unpredictable climate to Saudi Arabia’s relentless sun hasn’t dulled his competitive edge—he remains a significant force on the pitch.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – €200,000,000
Ronaldo is not only the highest earner in Saudi Arabia; he holds the title of the highest-paid athlete globally. His extraordinary contract with Al-Nassr is valued at an eye-popping €200 million per year, accompanied by lavish perks like a dedicated staff of 16, a private jet, and rumored equity in the club.
Over the past two seasons, he has maintained an exceptional performance level, scoring 35 goals followed by another 20 to retain his status as the league’s top scorer. At 40 years old, he is not merely pursuing statistics but may also have his sights set on reaching the monumental milestone of 1,000 career goals.
This diverse collection of talent in the Saudi Pro League marks a new era in football, invoking intrigue and inciting debate about the sport’s future. Whether motivated by lucrative paychecks or the thrill of competition, players are making consequential decisions with global reverberations.
Image Source: Stefan Constantin 22 / Shutterstock
