Forbes has recently released a list of top 10 highest-paid footballers in the world, which continues to be dominated by two household names in Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
However, the list also involves no less than three Real Madrid players in Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
Kylian Mbappe leads Real Madrid contingent
Kylian Mbappe sits highest among the Madrid trio at No. 4, with projected total earnings of $95 million for the 2025-26 season.
Forbes reports that the French forward earns around $60 million in salary and bonuses, with the rest coming from his wide-ranging sponsorships and personal investments.
Mbappe’s first season in Madrid ended in disappointment after the team’s Champions League quarterfinal exit, but the 26-year-old remains one of the sport’s most marketable figures.
His portfolio includes stakes in German electronics brand Loewe, luxury watch platform Wristcheck, and French club Stade Malherbe Caen, as well as endorsements with Nike and Hublot.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe is world’s fourth highest paid footballer. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Where do Vini Jr and Bellingham stand?
Vinicius Jr., ranked No. 6, is set to earn around $60 million this season, split between his Real Madrid wages and a growing off-field brand presence.
The Brazilian forward, whose contract negotiations with Real Madrid have stalled this season, has deals with Nike, Hugo Boss, and Prada Eyewear, among others, while continuing to be one of Madrid’s most consistent performers.
Despite minor dips in form, his 110 goals and 79 assists in 330 appearances underscore his importance to Los Blancos.
Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham makes his debut on the list at No. 9, with estimated total earnings of $44 million.
The 22-year-old English midfielder, who cost Madrid nearly $140 million two years ago, has become one of the club’s central figures.
He recently won England’s Player of the Year award and represents brands such as Adidas and Lucozade.