As of 2024, Riyad Mahrez is recognized as the highest-paid African footballer in history. After transferring from Manchester City to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, Mahrez’s annual earnings reached approximately $58 million, with $56 million from his club salary and an additional $2 million from endorsements.
Prior to Mahrez’s record earnings, Samuel Eto’o held the distinction of being the highest-paid African footballer. In 2011, Eto’o signed with Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala, securing a contract that paid him €20 million per season after taxes, making him the world’s highest-paid player at that time.
The significant increase in player salaries in recent years, especially with the involvement of clubs from leagues like Saudi Arabia’s Pro League, has contributed to these record-breaking earnings for African footballers.
