These Are the Highest-Paid Players in Ligue 1
France’s Ligue 1 has long been a proving ground for some of Europe’s finest young talents, while also serving as a glamorous destination for global stars — thanks largely to one club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Over the past decade, PSG has not only dominated the league on the pitch but also completely redefined the financial landscape of French football.
When it comes to wages, PSG’s supremacy is as overwhelming as their trophy cabinet. The capital club continues to attract elite players with enormous salaries, dwarfing the rest of the competition. This year’s list of Ligue 1 highest earners reads like a ‘who is who’ of the PSG locker room, showcasing the monopoly and dominance they hold in French football.
Top 10 Highest-Paid Players in Ligue 1:
Ousmane Dembélé – €346,000 a week
The electrifying French winger returned to Ligue 1 in 2023 after several up-and-down seasons at Barcelona. At PSG, Dembélé has been tasked with adding flair and unpredictability to a team entering a new post-Mbappé era. Injuries have always been a concern, but when fit, Dembélé’s speed and dribbling make him one of the league’s most dangerous attackers — and the top earner in France.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – €315,000 a week
The Georgian sensation Khvicha Kvaratskhelia holds the second place. His skill, creativity, and ability to decide games on his own have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after talents. His impressive salary in his first season reflects just how much PSG is willing to spend to keep their star winger.
Marquinhos – €259,000 a week
The Brazilian centre-back has been the backbone of PSG’s defense for nearly a decade. A model of consistency and leadership, Marquinhos is now club captain and continues to be one of the most respected figures in the dressing room. His high salary is a testament to his importance both on and off the pitch.
Lucas Hernandez – €254,000 a week
A World Cup winner with France, Lucas Hernandez arrived at PSG from Bayern Munich to bolster the left side of the defense. Known for his toughness and versatility, he’s quickly become a regular starter. Despite some injury setbacks, PSG’s faith in him remains evident through his paycheck.
Achraf Hakimi – €254,000 a week
The Moroccan full-back is one of the most dynamic players in world football. With his blistering pace and attacking instinct, Hakimi provides width and energy down the right flank. His performances have often been a bright spot for PSG, and his salary underlines his elite status.
6–10: The Rest of the List
Gianluigi Donnarumma – €245,000 a week (PSG)
Warren Zaïre-Emery – €219,000 a week (PSG)
Vitinha – €210,000 a week (PSG)
Nuno Mendes – €192,000 a week (PSG)
Milan Škriniar – €157,000 a week (PSG)
These were the Highest-Paid Players in Ligue 1, a list dominated by the financial might of Paris Saint-Germain. With ten of the ten best paid players wearing the PSG kit, the club’s continued grip on French football — both competitively and commercially — is undeniable. But with emerging stars like Zaïre-Emery, Vitinha and Nuno Mendes and established names like Marquinhos and Ousmane Dembélé leading the way, the future remains bright in the French capital.
Information obtained from Capology.
Interested in other leagues highest paid players? Check out the highest paid players in Serie A.
