The Saudi Pro League has truly transformed the landscape of football economics in a remarkably short timeframe. Massive players, even bigger salaries, and an ocean of oil money have made headlines worldwide—a financial reckoning that has some club owners and players looking over their shoulders in shock.
Today, many of the top earners in Saudi Arabia are pulling in salaries that would make even Premier League stars envious. Cristiano Ronaldo sparked this seismic shift in 2023, and soon after, the gates swung wide open. Now, the league is home to an impressive roster of World Cup winners and Premier League icons, creating a melting pot of talent and wealth like never seen before.
We’ve sifted through the figures, analyzed the contracts, and compiled a list of the highest-paid players currently in the Saudi Pro League. Let’s take a look at the elite roster.
10. Aymeric Laporte – €24,500,000
Laporte, once a crucial player in Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City setup, found himself sidelined as newer talents like John Stones and Ruben Dias took center stage. In August 2023, he made a splash by signing with Al-Nassr, leaving behind his previous glories for a new adventure. Though his Wikipedia page might still need a little updating, it’s clear the Saudi Pro League is determined to carve its niche on the global football map.
But hey, you can’t knock him for chasing the purse; earning €24.5 million annually as a centre-back is pretty impressive.
9. Aleksandar Mitrovic – €25,000,000
Mitrovic has always thrived on physicality, dominating defenders while racking up goals like it’s second nature. He effortlessly translated this success to the Saudi Pro League, netting 40 goals in 43 appearances for Al Hilal during his debut season, a statistic reminiscent of his stellar Championship season with Fulham.
Some might say the Saudi top division resembles a less intense version of the domestic leagues, complete with palm trees and stifling heat. And while whispers of a potential Premier League return linger—Everton being one of the clubs rumored to be interested—Mitrovic seems perfectly content strutting his stuff in Riyadh for now.
8. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic – €25,000,000
For years, Milinkovic-Savic was a name tossed around in conversations about Europe’s crème de la crème—Manchester United, Juventus, PSG—all reportedly keen on acquiring his services. Instead, the Lazio star chose to relocate to Saudi Arabia in July 2023, joining Al Hilal in a transaction worth around €40 million.
At just 30 years old, he’s showcasing the same physical prowess that won him accolades in Rome, even if his performances are under less scrutiny now.
7. N’Golo Kante – €25,000,000
Few players in football evoke as much admiration as N’Golo Kante. A two-time Premier League champion, Champions League victor, and World Cup hero, he’s genuinely one of the good guys in the sport.
Originating from humble beginnings in France to parents from Mali, Kante has never strayed from his roots. He actively contributes back to his homeland, helping build schools and providing stability for families. And it seems his earnings at Al Ittihad—topping €25 million—have only helped him elevate his lifestyle, swapping his trusty Mini Cooper for something a bit more luxurious.
6. Ivan Toney – €25,510,000
Toney is a dynamic player: a troublemaker for defenders, a penalty-box predator, and, for a short spell, a spectator. After dazzling in the Championship and netting 20 goals in the Premier League, he re-established his form by scoring a stunning free kick in his first game back, solidifying his spot in England’s Euro 2024 plans.
Upon joining Al Ahli for around €40 million, he became the only current England international in the league. Toney matched his impressive goal tally from Brentford during his inaugural Saudi season, bringing excitement each time he steps on the pitch.
5. Kalidou Koulibaly – €34,700,000
Koulibaly’s rise to wealth is underscored by his father’s hard work in a Senegal textile mill, where he labored tirelessly to provide better opportunities for his family. Growing up with a heart full of humility, he has never forgotten the roots from which he came.
Now, as one of Al Hilal’s marquee players, he earns a handsome salary for his leadership and defensive skills. But despite amassing wealth and accolades, you can bet he still carries the principles learned during those challenging early years.
4. Sadio Mane – €40,000,000
Mane electrified fans during his time at Liverpool, scoring 120 goals and winning every major trophy under the sun. His journey took him to Bayern Munich before landing at Al-Nassr, where he continued to find the back of the net—37 goals in 97 matches thus far.
While he might not always dazzle like he did in his prime, he remains a beacon of goodwill, contributing millions to his community back in Senegal. Building schools and hospitals, he’s a testament to how one can balance wealth and responsibility.
3. Karim Benzema – €50,000,000
Benzema arrived in Saudi Arabia riding high on accolades, including a Ballon d’Or and five Champions League trophies. He continues to prove his worth, scoring 21 goals in his latest season with Al-Ittihad, leading them to a league and cup double.
At 37, he’s still going strong, with career stats that are jaw-dropping: nearly 1,000 games, over 500 goals, and more than 200 assists. His hefty €50 million yearly salary feels justified when you consider his immense contributions.
2. Riyad Mahrez – €52,200,000
A unique accolade holder—Mahrez is among the few to grab the Premier League trophy with two different clubs. His honors list is formidable, so why not throw in €52 million a year? Since joining Al-Ahli in 2023, he has not only added the AFC Champions League title to his name but has also proven he can still run circles around defenders.
Switching from the UK’s unpredictable weather to Saudi’s relentless sun hasn’t dulled his competitive spirit—he’s still a potent force on the pitch.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – €200,000,000
Ronaldo isn’t just the top earner in Saudi Arabia; he’s the highest-paid athlete in the world, hands down. His astonishing contract with Al-Nassr comes with eye-watering perks: a staggering €200 million per year, a dedicated staff of 16, a private jet, and rumored equity in the club.
Over the past two seasons, he has continued to perform at an exceptional level, bagging 35 goals, followed by another 20 to remain the league’s leading scorer. At 40 years old, he’s not just chasing statistics but potentially eyeing the monumental milestone of 1,000 career goals.
This vibrant mix of talent in the Saudi Pro League signifies a new chapter in the football world, raising eyebrows and stirring conversations about the future of the game. Whether for the hefty paychecks or for the competitive spirit, players are making pivotal choices—and the ripple effects are felt worldwide.
Image Source: Stefan Constantin 22 / Shutterstock
