These Are the Highest-Paid Players in the Saudi Pro League
Over the past two years, the Saudi Pro League has transformed from a regional competition into one of the most talked-about leagues in global football. Fuelled by massive state-backed investment, Saudi clubs have lured some of the world’s biggest stars with jaw-dropping contracts — shaking up the global football economy in the process.
While Europe’s traditional giants still dominate the Champions League spotlight, the Saudi Pro League has become a new financial powerhouse. Clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Hilal have gone on spending sprees, offering salaries that rival — and often surpass — those in the Premier League or La Liga.
Top 10 Highest-Paid Players in the Saudi Pro League:
Cristiano Ronaldo – €3,846,154 a week
The man who started it all. Cristiano Ronaldo’s historic move to Al-Nassr in January 2023 made headlines worldwide — and his salary redefined what top players could earn outside of Europe. The Portuguese legend remains the face of the league, both on the pitch and commercially, and his earnings are in a league of their own.
Karim Benzema – €1,023,077 a week
A Ballon d’Or winner and Real Madrid legend, Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in 2023 amid much fanfare. Though his form has fluctuated, there’s no doubt about his pedigree. His elegant style, calm finishing, and leadership make him one of the standout figures in Saudi football — and the second-highest-paid player in the league.
Riyad Mahrez – €1,003,846 a week
After winning everything there is to win at Manchester City, Mahrez made the switch to Al-Ahli. The Algerian winger brought his trademark flair, silky dribbling, and killer left foot to the Saudi stage. His move exemplifies the league’s ambition to bring in elite-level skill and experience.
Sadio Mané – €769,231 a week
The Senegalese forward joined Al-Nassr shortly after Ronaldo, forming a fearsome attacking duo. Mané’s work ethic, pace, and attacking versatility continue to make him a valuable asset, even if his best years were in Liverpool red. His high wage reflects both his star power and experience.
Kalidou Koulibaly – €667,308 a week
After a short spell at Chelsea, Koulibaly found a new home at Al-Hilal. The powerful Senegalese defender is one of the most reliable centre-backs of his generation. With leadership and strength at the back, his signing was a key part of the club’s defensive rebuild.
6–10: The Rest of the List:
Ivan Toney – €490,577 a week (Al-Qadsiah)
Aleksandar Mitrović – €480,769 a week (Al-Hilal)
N’Golo Kanté – €480,769 a week (Al-Ittihad)
Sergej Milinković-Savić – €480,769 a week (Al-Hilal)
Aymeric Laporte – €471,154 a week (Al-Nassr)
These were the Highest-Paid Players in the Saudi Pro League, a list that underscores the country’s aggressive push to become a global football hub. With record-breaking salaries and world-class talent flooding in, the Saudi Pro League has positioned itself as a serious — and well-funded — player on the global stage.
Information obtained from Capology.
