These Are the Highest-Paid Players in the English Championship
While the Premier League grabs most of the headlines, England’s second tier — the Championship — remains one of the most competitive and unpredictable leagues in world football. It’s also big business. With parachute payments, ambitious ownership groups, and the promise of Premier League riches, some Championship clubs are spending like top-flight sides.
Although average wages in the Championship are well below the Premier League, a handful of standout players command hefty salaries — often due to Premier League experience or ambitious club projects. The 2024/25 list features international stars, marquee signings, and top-flight veterans chasing promotion.
Top 10 Highest-Paid Players in the English Championship:
1. Kelechi Iheanacho – £75,000 a week
Currently on loan at Middlesbrough from Sevilla, Iheanacho is by far the Championship’s top earner. The Nigerian forward brings top-level experience and attacking pedigree to Boro’s promotion bid. His wages reflect not only his quality, but also the league’s growing ability to attract and accommodate elite-level talent — even on temporary deals.
2. Patrick Bamford – £70,000 a week
Still at Leeds United following their relegation, Bamford remains one of the most experienced forwards in the league. Though injuries have disrupted his rhythm, his football IQ and movement in the final third continue to make him a valuable asset — and one of the highest-paid.
3. Enzo Le Fée – £67,500 a week
One of Sunderland’s most ambitious signings in recent history, the French midfielder arrived with a reputation for flair and control. Le Fée is a key part of the club’s project to blend youth with top-tier talent, and his wages confirm he’s seen as a centrepiece of their promotion aspirations.
4. Junior Firpo – £60,000 a week
The former Barcelona and Leeds full-back brings attacking thrust and La Liga pedigree to the Championship. Firpo’s marauding runs and link-up play down the left flank are crucial to Leeds’ offensive play — and his salary mirrors his top-level background.
5. Pascal Struijk – £50,000 a week
A reliable presence in Leeds United’s defense, Pascal Struijk brings versatility, calm under pressure, and emerging leadership. The defender became a key figure at Elland Road — a status reflected in his earnings and consistent selection.
The Rest of the List:
6. Aaron Ramsey – £50,000 a week (Cardiff City)
7. Mason Holgate – £50,000 a week (West Bromwich Albion)
8. Daniel James – £50,000 a week (Leeds United)
9. Josh Brownhill – £45,000 a week (Burnley)
10. Angelo Ogbonna – £45,000 a week (Watford)
These were the Highest-Paid Players in the English Championship, a league full of drama, ambition, and growing financial muscle. From Premier League holdovers to marquee signings like Le Fée and high-profile loans like Iheanacho, the Championship continues to blur the line between England’s first and second tiers.
Information obtained from Capology.com.
