The year 2017 witnessed some of the most lucrative contracts in football history as clubs splashed the cash to secure the world’s best talent. But who were the highest paid football players in 2017? This article delves into the financial landscape of football during that year, exploring the top earners and the factors that contributed to their staggering salaries.
Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Real Madrid in 2017
The Big Earners: A Look at the Top Salaries
Leading the pack in 2017 was none other than Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese icon, then at Real Madrid, commanded a weekly salary that dwarfed his contemporaries. His extraordinary goalscoring record, global appeal, and brand value made him the most bankable asset in football.
Hot on Ronaldo’s heels was his perennial rival, Lionel Messi. The Argentine maestro, a wizard with the ball at his feet, was handsomely rewarded for his mesmerizing performances for Barcelona. His unmatched dribbling skills, playmaking genius, and goal-scoring prowess made him a prized asset, justifying his place among the highest earners.
Beyond the Pitch: Endorsements and Brand Value
It’s worth noting that a footballer’s income extends beyond their club salaries. Endorsement deals with major brands contribute significantly to their overall earnings. Players like Ronaldo and Messi, with their global stardom, command lucrative partnerships with sportswear giants, beverage companies, and other multinational corporations.
Neymar Jr. celebrating a goal for Paris Saint-Germain in 2017
A Shift in Power: The Rise of Emerging Leagues
2017 also saw the emergence of new financial powerhouses in world football. Clubs from the Chinese Super League, flush with cash, offered astronomical wages to attract some of Europe’s biggest names. This shift in the financial landscape led to a more competitive market for top players, driving up salaries across the board.
Conclusion: A Golden Era for Footballers’ Salaries
The year 2017 marked a period of extraordinary financial growth in football. The highest paid football players in 2017, led by global icons like Ronaldo and Messi, enjoyed unprecedented salaries and endorsement deals. The combination of their exceptional talent, global brand appeal, and the emergence of new financial powerhouses created a perfect storm that propelled footballers’ incomes to new heights.