Sports
10 Wealthiest Footballers at 2026 World Cup
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching on the horizon, it’s still impossible to know which team will go all the way this summer. One certainty, however, is that the finest players on the planet will be doing their best to make the difference.
The likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have gone into past tournaments as the biggest talents on show, but a newer generation – made up of stars such as Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland and two-time finalist Kylian Mbappe – will be just as closely watched this summer. It will be fascinating to see which individual has the biggest impact.
Whoever helps guide their nation to glory will forever be revered in their homeland. And with that level of respect will come great financial reward. Of course, as money is so key in modern football, many of the key stars are already incredibly wealthy.
With that in mind, as reported by the Sun, here are the 10 richest footballers going to the 2026 World Cup, according to their net worth.
10
James Rodriguez (Colombia) – £59m
It won’t feel like a true World Cup until fans get a flash of Colombia hero James Rodriguez in that famous yellow kit. After all, it was at the 2014 tournament where he announced himself as a global superstar, bagging the Golden Boot after netting six goals in Brazil.
That success helped him secure a mega-money move to Real Madrid, while he has since played for the likes of Bayern Munich and Everton. Rodriguez, now 34, plays for MLS side Minnesota United, which has helped contribute to his £59m net worth. Despite some recent health issues, he’ll hope to make a positive impact for his country this summer.
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9
Erling Haaland (Norway) – £59m
Manchester City and Norway striker Erling Haaland is one of the best goal scorers on the planet right now and goes into the tournament as the joint-most valuable player in terms of transfer estimation. He’s currently the highest-paid player in the Premier League, so it’s no shock to see him make it onto this list.
They say putting the ball in the back of the net is the hardest thing to do in football, but Haaland makes that look easy, with 162 goals in 198 games for Man City. Stats like that are why, at still only 25 years old, the striker is said to make over half a million pounds every week for his club.
8
Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) – £63m
Riyad Mahrez established himself as one of the brightest wingers on the planet during his Premier League title-winning season at Leicester City. He’s since played for two clubs that were more than willing to offer him large sums of money to join.
Indeed, he first joined Man City and spent five seasons at the Etihad, winning four Premier League titles. He then joined Al-Ahli in 2023, and the Saudi Pro League have made him the eighth-best-paid player at the tournament. This will be just his second World Cup, having first featured in the competition for Algeria over a decade ago in 2014.
7
Son Heung-min (South Korea) – £74m
Some look at Son Heung-min and wonder why he spent so long at Tottenham Hotspur, failing to win the trophies a player of his talent deserved. However, he departed in 2025, having finally got his hands on a Europa League title, before then joining Los Angeles FC.
In fairness, if the South Korean does have any regrets about his career, they likely won’t relate to the financial side of things. Now 33, the MLS star is among the richest footballers in the world with a £74m net worth. A superstar representative of Asian football, he’ll have no shortage of brand deals even as his status as an elite player begins to wind down.
6
Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – £104m
Mohamed Salah is now set to leave Liverpool after a stunning career at Anfield. The good news for whoever he joins is that he will arrive as a free transfer, the bad news is that he will cost a huge amount in wages. After all, his final contract with the Reds saw him pick up a reported £400,000-per-week.
Salah certainly earned such a big contract, firing the English giants to their first two Premier League titles, as well as a Champions League and multiple other cups. Now 33, it remains to be seen how much longer he has left at the highest level. His performances for Egypt this summer could give a good indication of that.
Every Squad at the 2026 World Cup Ranked By Combined Player Transfer Value
Just three teams beat the billion-pound mark.
5
Harry Kane (England) – £110m
There are very few better players on the planet than Harry Kane right now, even the player has backed himself among the favourites to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. With 61 goals and seven assists in 51 games, it’s hard to argue against the Englishman’s theory that he just needs a World Cup trophy to make himself the frontrunner.
His status as the Three Lions’ record goalscorer, with 74 strikes, has helped make him a household name across Britain, and it’s no surprise that vast riches have subsequently followed. With a net worth of £110m, there are few active players on the planet as well off financially – and only four who are going to the World Cup this summer.
4
Kylian Mbappe (France) – £186m
Kylian Mbappe has been France’s key man at the past two World Cups. He scored in the 2018 final as his nation lifted the trophy, while he then became just the second player in history to net a hat-trick in a final as the French were beaten by Argentina in 2022.
He established himself at Monaco but was swiftly picked up by Paris Saint-Germain, before joining Real Madrid in 2024. While the major toprhies he no doubt dreamed of have not yet followed in the Spanish capital, he certainly won’t have to worry about money any time soon. His various contracts over the years have seen him make £186m.
3
Neymar (Brazil) – £334m
There were major doubts that Neymar would even make the Brazil squad but Carlo Ancelotti decided to take a chance on the ageing winger. Now 34, he’s hardly the player he once was, but there can be no doubting his talent.
More than anything, it’s a question of fitness with the player, and having suffered a recent grade two muscle injury in his right calf, he faces a race against time to be involved this summer. Worth a whopping £334m, Neymar would likely trade a huge chunk of his personal wealth just to get his hands on the World Cup trophy.
2
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – £742m
Lionel Messi has long been viewed by many as the greatest footballer of all time. Those who were on the fence may well have been swayed by his World Cup-winning display in 2022, as he led Argentina to glory with seven goals and three assists. Now 38, it will be fascinating to see how he gets on this summer.
One advantage he has is that he will be acclimated to the conditions, having been playing for MLS side Inter Miami since 2023. The US club offered Messi a huge wage to get him on board, which has significantly boosted his net worth. The living legend is likely to bow out from international football after the tournament, so fans best enjoy him while they still can.
1
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – £1bn
Although most view Messi as the best based on pure footballing talent, Cristiano Ronaldo tends to rank above him when it comes to the financial side of the game. This list is no exception to that rule, with the 41-year-old the only player at the 2026 World Cup who is worth over a billion pounds.
Ronaldo really made a name for himself at Manchester United before joining Real Madrid. His best years were spent at those two clubs, but he’s kept chipping away at all sorts of goal-scoring records across spells at Juventus, a return to Old Trafford, and now in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr. Essentially, all he has left to win in his career is the World Cup, and this is likely his final chance to achieve that goal. Predict strong emotions, whatever the outcome.
Figures via the Sun – 07/06/26
All eyes were on Andy Robertson as he made his first appearance for Tottenham Hotspur‘s third win of pre-season on Wednesday.
A sensational free-kick from Mathys Tel put Roberto De Zerbi’s men in front against Sydney FC in the 29th minute. The A-League outfit replied through Takahiro Sekine and the game headed to a penalty shootout.
Martin Dubravka came up trumps, stopping a spot-kick before Dane Scarlett bagged the winning penalty. The win in Sydney served as perfect preparation for Saturday’s pre-season clash with rivals Chelsea.
Robertson Debuts in Tottenham Win Over Sydney FC
De Zerbi waited until the 65th minute to introduce Robertson who appeared in Spurs’ colours for the first time since arriving as a free agent earlier this summer. He had been given time off following his participation at the World Cup with Scotland.
Robertson impressed during a 25-minute cameo, creating two chances and being denied an effort on goal. The former Liverpool star took the captain’s armband and scored one of the Lilywhites’ four penalties as they claimed a 4-2 win.
New signing Tonali also came on during the second half for Lucas Bergvall, who is heavily linked with a move away. There have been a ton of changes to De Zerbi’s squad, and while Robertson didn’t cost a penny, fans believe he’ll be just as important as a big-money signing.
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Spurs Fans Already ‘in Love’ With Robertson
Robertson’s showing didn’t go unnoticed by Spurs fans who applauded the two-time Premier League champion. They are optimistic that he’ll be a key man in De Zerbi’s team when the new season kicks off.
One fan wrote on X: “Andy Robertson with a fantastic first cameo today. He looked great down the left, created multiple chances that we really should’ve done better on, looked sharp, and got in great positions. Very impressed. Looking forward to seeing more.”
Another pointed out what the 32-year-old will bring to De Zerbi’s squad: “That experience and quality down the left side is going to be massive for us this season. Promising first outing.”
One supporter is already a fan of the Scotsman: “It’s taken just one game for me to fall in love with Robertson.”
Another added: “Robertson may end up being a super smart signing. Impressive on the overlap. Good pro. Great example.”
This was echoed by another: “Robertson still looks like he has loads of quality left in him! Great signing on a free.”
One fan reckons it could mean trouble for one of his new teammates: “Udogie is nowhere near the levels of Robertson.”
Robertson signed a four-year deal with the North London giants, enticed by the club’s project and ambition. After a 17th-placed finish last season, he is the type of signing their fanbase feels will help not only on the pitch but also raise the standards in the dressing room.
In news that has sparked outrage across the footballing world, FIFA president Gianni Infantino wants to make the World Cup available for investment from private suitors. It turns out, Infantino is set to make millions if all goes to plan for him.
FIFA are aiming to form a new commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprises (FFE), which will take responsibility for its major international competitions, such as the World Cup and the Club World Cup. Although the organisation has stated that they will maintain a majority stake of 51 per cent to ensure control, they hope to generate roughly $4.2 billion in initial capital by selling individual stakes to private investors.
The notion has drawn great criticism. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, for example, has commented: “The World Cup is not a product. It is the greatest competition in world sport, and it was never anyone’s to sell. Dress the deal up however you like. Once you have sold a piece of it, you have sold out. Football belongs to the fans. It always has, and it always will.”
Infantino Could Massively Boost His Current $6m Salary
For those who view this as an act of greed from FIFA, their beliefs will only be emboldened upon learning that Infantino is set to benefit financially from the proposal. A report from The Times has explained how the 56-year-old will take on a new role, and that would come with a big salary increase.
The article claims that Infantino’s role could be to become the commissioner or chief executive of the new company, once his last presidential term expires in 2031. While the exact compensation for the role hasn’t been finalised, sources indicate it could match the NFL commissioner’s salary of around $64m (£48.16m) annually.
That figure would represent a huge bump from what he currently makes at FIFA. Indeed, the Swiss administrator is said to make roughly $6m (£4.51m) per year as the organisation’s president. This is split between a base annual salary of $3.3m, paired with a performance-based bonus of around $2.8m.
As if speaking directly against Infantino, UEFA have commented, “FIFA cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends.”
English FA React as Infantino Aims to Sell World Cup
With Infantino set to make a personal fortune if FIFA’s aim to privatise the World Cup comes to pass, it’s no surprise that he appears to be pushing hard for the change. A ‘scandalous’ letter has reportedly now leaked, in which the 56-year-old appeared to inform 211 national member associations that they had a choice to either accept the proposal – which could see them each given as much as $40m (£30.1m) – or reject it and miss out on the money.
The nations have been given until just 19 September to make a final decision, but will face a potential 75 per cent reduction in funding if they aren’t on board. Among those to release a statement on the matter, the English FA have responded:
“We were completely unaware of this proposal and have no substantive details, including what the proposition actually is, and what conditions are attached.
“Based on the limited information, we are deeply concerned about the lack of process and governance to get to this point, and the apparent substance and principles involved.
“When the proposal is shared in the full and transparent way now promised by FIFA, we will make our views clear, and comment further.”
French FA president Philippe Diallo also seemed surprised by the announcement, noting: “We learned through a press release about a very important project about which we have no details and which, given its nature, that is, attracting investment funds through a commercial entity separate from FIFA raises many questions.”
It will be interesting to learn which nations accept the proposal, and what happens to those who do not.
Barcelona enters the 2026/27 season as reigning La Liga champions and will have high hopes of building on their domestic success under the careful eye of manager Hansi Flick.
Now boasting a squad with eight World Cup winning members following Spain‘s historic second victory in the summer, a new confidence will wash over the squad as they look to build on the domestic dominance that has seen three league titles in four years.
Without doubt, cup success in Spain and, more importantly, Europe, will be targeted. Falling to Atlético Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League and Copa del Rey were significant blows that will not be tolerated again.
However, an old foe is building something potentially menacing. The return of José Mourinho to Real Madrid, as well as multiple new signings, will give Barça plenty to contend with and the race for La Liga is set to be one of the most enticing for years.
This young and developing squad will improve year by year naturally, but Flick will know his side need to adapt and grow again, and quickly, if they are to hold off challengers in Spain and look to take down reigning European kings Paris Saint-Germain.
Financial constraints continue to shape every move in Catalonia, with La Liga’s salary limit forcing the club to balance the books before registering new faces. Expect further business before the window shuts on September 1.
Ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, GIVEMESPORT brings you every new signing and departure from the Camp Nou.
New Barcelona Signings 2026/27
|
Player |
Nationality |
Previous Club |
Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Anthony Gordon |
England |
Newcastle United |
£69million |
|
Karim Adeyemi |
Germany |
Borussia Dortmund |
£18million |
The big news this summer revolves around Barcelona‘s attack. After a successful loan spell for Marcus Rashford, the club has opted to bring in another English winger in the form of Newcastle United‘s Anthony Gordon for £69million.
It represents the club’s biggest spend on an individual signing since Frenkie de Jong arrived in 2019. Given the financial restrictions that have plagued them since 2020, Gordon represents a strong statement, and they will hope he can produce something similar to the 17 goals and five assists he managed in all competitions last season.
More attacking depth was acquired in the form of speedster Karim Adeyemi, who arrived from Borussia Dortmund for around £18million. The 24-year-old set a Bundesliga record with his speed of 36.65 km/h in 2023 and is capable of playing on either flank or centrally, as he racked up 10 goals and six assists in his final year with Die Borussen.
Reports suggest they aren’t done yet, either. Bournemouth‘s Eli Junior Kroupi has been mentioned, whilst key target Julian Alvarez remains a dream striker signing and João Cancelo, who managed 16 league appearances last season on loan, could yet make his move permanent.
Barcelona Departures 2026/27
|
Player |
Nationality |
New Club |
Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Robert Lewandowski |
Poland |
Chicago Fire |
Free |
|
Ansu Fati |
Spain |
AS Monaco |
£9.5million |
|
Iñaki Pena |
Spain |
Panathinaikos |
£2.5million |
|
Diego Kochen |
Spain |
Lyngby BK |
Loan |
The major news is that Robert Lewandowski has departed the club, exiting at the end of his contract for a new challenge in the MLS with Chicago Fire. His goals helped fire Flick’s side to trophy success, netting 120 times in 193 games in all competitions.
Also exiting is academy graduate Ansu Fati after AS Monaco completed a move worth £9.5million. Despite a meteoric rise as a 17-year-old in the first-team, he managed just 86 league appearances in six seasons.
Whilst goalkeeping duo Iñaki Pena and Diego Kochen both departed, with the former heading to Panathinaikos for £2.5million while the other joined Lyngby BK on loan.
Despite his World Cup final Man of the Match performance, Ferran Torres‘ future has been in question due to his current deal expiring at the end of the season. No decision has been made on his future, but his exit can’t be ruled out.
Plus, one of their many young talented cohorts has been targeted; Arsenal are reportedly looking at midfielder Marc Bernal to bolster their midfield after winning the Premier League.
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