From Cristiano Ronaldo to Lionel Messi! 10 biggest contracts in football history
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi (AP Photos)
In modern football, elite players are commanding record-breaking salaries, driven by global demand, commercial influence, and the rise of high-paying leagues like Saudi Arabia's Pro League.
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially extended his stay with Al Nassr until 2027, ending widespread speculation about his future. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who joined the Saudi Arabian club in late 2022 after leaving Manchester United, has quickly become the face of the Saudi Pro League revolution.
With 93 goals in 105 appearances, his impact on and off the pitch has been immense. Ronaldo announced the news via social media, vowing to "make history together," while Al Nassr confirmed the deal shortly after.
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His new contract reinforces his position as one of the highest-paid footballers in the world.
Here are the ten most lucrative contracts ever signed:
10. Lionel Messi – Inter Miami (2023–2025)
Weekly wage: £750,000
Annual salary: £15.6 million
9. Erling Haaland – Manchester City (2022–2027)
Weekly wage: £850,000 (with bonuses)
Annual salary: £44.2 million
8. Riyad Mahrez – Al-Ahli (2023–2027)
Weekly wage: £854,985
Annual salary: £44.5 million
7. Neymar – PSG (2021–2025)
Weekly wage: £923,112
Annual salary: £48 million
6. Cristiano Ronaldo – Juventus (2018–2022)
Weekly wage: £940,320
Annual salary: £48.9 million
5. Lionel Messi – Barcelona (2017–2021)
Weekly wage: £1,162,911
Annual salary: £60.5 million
4. Kylian Mbappé – PSG (2022–2025)
Weekly wage: £1,179,290
Annual salary: £61.3 million
3. Neymar – Al Hilal (2023–2025)
Weekly wage: £1,637,903
Annual salary: £85.2 million
2. Karim Benzema – Al-Ittihad (2023–2026)
Weekly wage: £1,637,903
Annual salary: £85.2 million
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr (2023–2025)
Weekly wage: £3,275,806
Annual salary: £170.3 million
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