Football isn’t just a sport; it’s a global phenomenon. And in Africa, we have some of the best talents in the game, earning millions on and off the pitch. Today, we’ll be counting down the top 10 highest-paid African footballers of 2024 and taking a look at their incredible net worths and personal journeys. So therefore, after a careful study and research I present to you the top 10 highest paid footballers in Africa in 2024 and their net worth.
10. Achraf Hakimi $20 million
Achraf Hakimi, Morocco’s pride, has quickly established himself as one of the best full-backs in world football. Born in Madrid, Spain, in 1998, Hakimi joined Real Madrid’s youth academy at a young age. He spent time developing his skills before breaking into the senior team, making a name for himself with his versatility and electric pace. After loan spells at Borussia Dortmund, where he truly shone, Hakimi moved to Inter Milan, helping them secure the Serie A title.
In 2021, Paris Saint-Germain signed him for a fee of around €60 million, making him one of the most expensive defenders in the world. Known for his attacking prowess, Hakimi is more than just a defender – he’s an essential part of the PSG offensive setup, often pushing forward to assist and score. With an annual salary of $10 million and a net worth of $20 million, he’s become a top African footballer to watch. His consistent performances on the big stage, especially in the Champions League, have made him a fan favorite globally.”
9. Riyad Mahrez $23 million
Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian wizard, burst onto the global football scene with his remarkable performances at Leicester City. Born in Sarcelles, France, in 1991, Mahrez started his professional career in France before moving to Leicester City in 2014 for a mere £450,000. His career skyrocketed in 2016 when he played an instrumental role in Leicester’s miraculous Premier League title win. His vision, dribbling skills, and penchant for cutting inside from the right-wing made him one of the best wingers in the world.
Mahrez’s career took another leap forward when he joined Manchester City in 2018 for a record £60 million fee. He went on to win multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a Champions League. In 2023, Mahrez made a lucrative move to Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, earning $12 million annually. With a net worth of $20 million, Mahrez remains one of the wealthiest African footballers. Known for his ability to score from difficult angles and deliver pinpoint crosses, Mahrez’s technical ability and flair have made him a key player for both his club and the Algerian national team.”
8. Kalidou Koulibaly $25 million
Senegalese center-back Kalidou Koulibaly has long been regarded as one of the best defenders in the world. Born in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, France, in 1991, Koulibaly began his professional career with French club Metz before moving to Genk in Belgium. However, it was his move to Napoli in 2014 that saw him rise to prominence. Known for his physicality, intelligence on the ball, and leadership qualities, Koulibaly quickly became a fan favorite and a cornerstone of Napoli’s defense.
Over his eight-year stint in Serie A, Koulibaly earned a reputation as a wall in defense, often marking some of the world’s best attackers out of games. His contributions helped Napoli compete at the highest levels both in Italy and Europe. In 2023, Koulibaly moved to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, where he earns $14 million annually. His net worth sits at around $25 million. Despite leaving Europe, Koulibaly remains a top-class defender and continues to be a vital asset to both his club and the Senegalese national team, having led his country to win the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022.”
7. Wilfried Zaha $30 million
Wilfried Zaha, one of the most electrifying wingers in football, has always been a player with a flair for the dramatic. Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, in 1992, Zaha moved to London at the age of four. He joined Crystal Palace’s youth academy and quickly rose through the ranks, making his senior debut at just 17 years old. His speed, skill, and ability to take on defenders caught the eye of many top clubs. In 2013, Zaha moved to Manchester United but struggled to find regular playing time. A return to Crystal Palace saw him rediscover his form and become the club’s talisman.
In 2023, Zaha made a move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he now earns $15 million annually. With a net worth of $30 million, Zaha continues to shine as one of Africa’s most skillful and dynamic attackers. His unique style of play, characterized by his quick feet and fearless approach, has made him a fan favorite wherever he’s played. Despite multiple offers from Europe’s top clubs over the years, Zaha has always been loyal to Crystal Palace, where he is considered a club legend.”
6. Sadio Mané $35 million
Sadio Mané, Senegal’s golden boy, has been a key figure in African football for nearly a decade. Born in Bambali, Senegal, in 1992, Mané’s rise to the top is a true rags-to-riches story. He began his professional career in France with Metz before moving to Red Bull Salzburg in Austria, where he won multiple league titles. His breakthrough came when he joined Southampton in the Premier League, where his blistering pace and clinical finishing made him a standout player.
In 2016, Mané moved to Liverpool, where he became one of the best players in the world. His contributions helped Liverpool win the Premier League, Champions League, and FIFA Club World Cup. In 2023, Mané made a high-profile switch to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he earns $17 million annually. His net worth is estimated at $35 million. Off the pitch, Mané is known for his philanthropy, having built schools and hospitals in his hometown. His humility and dedication to his roots have earned him immense respect, making him not only a footballing icon but a true role model for millions.”
5. Franck Kessié $40 million
Franck Kessié, the powerful Ivorian midfielder, has been a force to be reckoned with since his early days in Serie A. Born in Ouragahio, Ivory Coast, in 1996, Kessié began his professional career with Atalanta in Italy, where his box-to-box midfield play caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs. In 2019, Kessié moved to AC Milan, where he played a crucial role in the team’s revival, helping them win the Serie A title in 2022 after an 11-year drought. Known for his strength, tactical awareness, and composure under pressure, Kessié became one of the most sought-after midfielders in the world.
In 2023, Kessié signed with Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, where he earns $18 million per year. His net worth is currently $40 million. Kessié’s ability to break up play and contribute both defensively and offensively makes him one of the most complete midfielders in the game. His work ethic and leadership on the field are qualities that have made him a favorite among fans and teammates alike. With his move to the Middle East, Kessié continues to grow his influence both as a player and a brand.”
4. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang $45 million
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is one of Africa’s most recognizable footballers, known for his speed, lethal finishing, and flamboyant personality. Born in Laval, France, in 1989 to a Gabonese family, Aubameyang began his professional career at AC Milan, though he spent most of his early years on loan at various clubs. It was at Borussia Dortmund where Aubameyang truly exploded onto the global stage, winning the Bundesliga Golden Boot in 2017 with 31 goals. His lightning speed and keen eye for goal made him one of the most feared forwards in Europe.
In 2018, Aubameyang made a high-profile move to Arsenal, where he won the FA Cup and was named the club’s captain. His charisma and leadership earned him the love of Arsenal fans. In 2023, after a brief stint at Chelsea, Aubameyang moved to Olympique de Marseille. Despite his age, he remains a prolific goal-scorer, earning $19 million annually and boasting a net worth of $45 million. Known for his extravagant cars and fashion sense, Aubameyang is as famous off the pitch as he is on it. However, his dedication to football and consistent goal-scoring prowess keeps him among the top earners in African football.”
3. Victor Osimhen $50 million
Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian superstar, has quickly risen to become one of the most dangerous strikers in world football. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1998, Osimhen’s football journey started in the streets before being picked up by local clubs. His impressive performances for Nigeria at the U-17 World Cup in 2015, where he won the Golden Boot, caught the attention of European scouts. After stints at Wolfsburg and Lille, Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 for a record fee of €70 million, making him the most expensive African player at the time.
At Napoli, Osimhen has become a goal-scoring machine, helping the club win their first Serie A title in over 30 years. His speed, physicality, and ability to score from all angles have made him a nightmare for defenders. In 2024, he became one of the highest-paid African footballers, earning $25 million annually. His net worth sits at $50 million. Despite his humble beginnings, Osimhen has remained grounded, often speaking about his desire to give back to his community. With his career trajectory, Osimhen is expected to continue breaking records and inspiring a new generation of African footballers.”
2. Mohamed Salah $90 million
Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s pride and arguably Africa’s most famous footballer, has been dominating European football for years. Born in Nagrig, Egypt, in 1992, Salah started his professional career with Egyptian club El Mokawloon before moving to Europe to join Swiss club Basel. His career truly took off after a successful spell with AS Roma, which led to his return to the Premier League, signing with Liverpool in 2017. At Liverpool, Salah became a global superstar, breaking multiple records, including the Premier League’s single-season goal record.
With his blistering speed, close control, and lethal finishing, Salah has helped Liverpool win multiple trophies, including the Premier League, Champions League, and FIFA Club World Cup. His consistency on the pitch has made him a fan favorite, while his humility and philanthropic efforts in Egypt have earned him the respect of millions. In 2024, Salah earns $35 million annually and has a net worth of $90 million. His influence extends beyond football, as he’s widely regarded as an ambassador for both Egyptian and African sports, using his platform to advocate for social causes and support his home country.
1. Yassine Bounou $100 million
Yassine Bounou, known as ‘Bono’, is one of Africa’s most celebrated goalkeepers and, as of 2024, the highest-paid African footballer. Born in Montreal, Canada, to Moroccan parents in 1991, Bounou moved to Morocco at a young age and began his career with Wydad Casablanca. After winning the Moroccan league title, he moved to Europe, playing for Atletico Madrid’s reserves before establishing himself as one of the best goalkeepers in Spain during his time at Girona and Sevilla.
Bounou’s career hit new heights at Sevilla, where his performances in La Liga and the UEFA Europa League, including several crucial penalty saves, made him a household name. His heroics helped Sevilla win back-to-back Europa League titles, solidifying his reputation as one of the best shot-stoppers in the world. In 2023, Bounou made a high-profile move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, earning $40 million annually. His net worth now sits at $100 million. Known for his calm demeanor, leadership, and ability to save penalties in high-pressure situations, Bounou has become a symbol of excellence in African football, proving that goalkeepers can also be superstars.
Austine Ikeru is a Professional Content Creator