African Football's Highest Earners: Top 10 Players And Their Salaries

African football has seen significant growth over the years, both in terms of talent and financial rewards. As of 2024, the highest-earning African footballers are not only making their mark on the pitch but also commanding some of the most impressive salaries in the sport globally. These earnings reflect their skill, influence, and the high demand for top talent in elite football leagues, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.

1. Riyad Mahrez (Algeria - Al-Ahli)

Topping the list is Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, who transferred from Manchester City to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. Mahrez's move has catapulted him to the pinnacle of African football earners, with a staggering weekly wage of £858,944, translating to an annual salary of £45 million. His earnings are a testament to his outstanding career and the lucrative opportunities available in the Saudi Pro League.

2. Sadio Mane (Senegal - Al-Nassr)

Following closely is Sadio Mane, who switched from Bayern Munich to Al-Nassr after a challenging season in Germany. Mane now earns £658,194 per week, which equates to an annual salary of £34 million. His move to Saudi Arabia has significantly boosted his earnings, making him the second highest-paid African footballer.

3. Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal - Al-Hilal)

Another prominent figure in the Saudi Pro League is Kalidou Koulibaly, who plays for Al-Hilal. The Senegalese defender commands a weekly wage of £570,984, resulting in an annual salary of £30 million. This marks a substantial increase from his previous earnings at Chelsea, underscoring the financial benefits of his move to the Middle East.

4. Mohamed Salah (Egypt - Liverpool)

Mohamed Salah remains one of the most influential African players in European football, earning £350,000 per week at Liverpool. His annual income stands at £18.2 million, reflecting his status as a key player in the Premier League and his continued value to Liverpool amid interest from other lucrative leagues.

5. Seko Fofana (Ivory Coast - Al-Nassr)

Seko Fofana, who moved to Al-Nassr from Lens, is another African star benefiting from the wealth of the Saudi Pro League. The Ivorian midfielder earns £250,000 weekly, amounting to an annual salary of £13 million. His decision to join the league underscores the increasing appeal of Middle Eastern clubs to top African talents.

6. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco - Paris Saint-Germain)

Paris Saint-Germain's Achraf Hakimi is one of the few African players commanding top wages in Europe. The Moroccan fullback earns £239,418 per week, which brings his annual salary to £12.4 million. His consistent performances for PSG and his reputation as one of the best fullbacks in the world make him a valuable asset to his club.

7. Franck Kessie (Ivory Coast - Al-Ahli)

Franck Kessie, who previously played for Barcelona, now earns £230,368 per week at Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. His move to the Middle East has seen his annual income rise to £12 million, highlighting the financial incentives that have drawn several African stars to the region.

8. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria - Napoli)

Victor Osimhen, currently playing for Napoli, is the highest-paid Nigerian footballer, earning £211,000 weekly, which equates to an annual salary of £11 million. His impressive performances have made him a target for top European clubs, with potential transfers likely to increase his earnings even further.

9. Thomas Partey (Ghana - Arsenal)

Thomas Partey, a key player for Arsenal, earns £200,000 per week, amounting to an annual salary of £10.4 million. Since joining Arsenal from Atletico Madrid, Partey has been an integral part of the team's midfield, and his earnings reflect his importance to the Gunners.

10. Iñaki Williams (Ghana - Athletic Bilbao)

Rounding out the top ten is Iñaki Williams of Athletic Bilbao, who earns £187,585 per week. His annual income of £9.7 million underscores his long-standing contribution to the Spanish club, where he has been a key figure for nearly a decade.

Conclusion

These players exemplify the peak of African talent in global football, with their substantial earnings highlighting the financial rewards available at the highest levels of the sport. As African players continue to excel, their financial influence in the global football market is likely to grow even further.