African footballers have made a huge impact on the world stage, not just with their skill, but also through the massive wealth they have built throughout their careers. From earning huge salaries in Europe and Asia to signing major endorsement deals and building businesses back home, these stars have created financial legacies that go beyond football.
Here’s a look at the Top 5 richest African footballers of all time in 2025:
1. Samuel Eto’o – Net Worth: $95 Million
Samuel Eto’o remains the richest African footballer of all time with an estimated net worth of $95 million.
The Cameroonian legend is one of the most decorated players in Africa, having won the African Footballer of the Year award four times. Eto’o was a major part of Barcelona’s golden era, helping the club win two UEFA Champions League titles and many La Liga trophies.
He also played for top clubs like Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Anzhi Makhachkala, where he earned one of the highest salaries in football history at the time. In addition to massive salaries and bonuses, Eto’o secured major endorsement deals with brands like Puma and Ford, and has invested in real estate and business ventures across Africa.
Read more about Samuel Eto’o’s net worth in 2025
2. Didier Drogba – Net Worth: $90 Million
Ivorian football icon Didier Drogba ranks second with a net worth of $90 million.
Drogba is best remembered for his legendary spell at Chelsea, where he won 4 Premier League titles, 4 FA Cups, and the 2012 Champions League, scoring the equalizer and winning penalty in the final.
Throughout his career, Drogba earned millions in salaries and signed top endorsement deals with Nike, Pepsi, and Samsung. Beyond football, he is a successful businessman and philanthropist. His Didier Drogba Foundation supports healthcare and education in Ivory Coast.
3. Mohamed Salah – Net Worth: $90 Million
Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian superstar, also sits at $90 million.
Currently playing for Liverpool, Salah has helped the club win the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup. He’s a two-time Golden Boot winner and one of the highest-paid African footballers, earning over $20 million per year.
Check out the full list of the top 10 richest footballers in the world in 2025
He also has endorsement deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and Vodafone Egypt, which have added significantly to his net worth. Salah has also contributed to charity efforts, including building schools and hospitals in Egypt.
Mohamed Salah’s latest achievements and earnings – ESPN
4. Yaya Touré – Net Worth: $70 Million
Ivorian midfielder Yaya Touré earned an estimated $70 million during his career.
Touré starred at Barcelona and Manchester City, winning La Liga, Champions League, and multiple Premier League titles. At his peak, he earned over $15 million per year, making him one of Africa’s highest-paid players.
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He partnered with brands like Puma and Nissan, and post-retirement, Touré has invested in business and pursued a coaching career. He’s also involved in youth and education projects across Africa.
5. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – Net Worth: $50 Million
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the speedy Gabonese striker, is the fifth richest African footballer with $50 million.
He has played for Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal, and Barcelona. While at Arsenal, he was among the highest-paid Premier League players, earning over $13 million per year.
Aubameyang’s fortune also comes from deals with Nike and EA Sports. His popularity and goal-scoring talent have made him one of the most marketable African footballers of the last decade.
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Final Thoughts
These African football legends didn’t just shine on the pitch—they also built strong financial empires. From Eto’o’s historic contracts to Salah’s global endorsements, these players have used their fame wisely to create lasting wealth.
Their stories continue to inspire millions across Africa and around the world.
Source: Portions of this article were adapted and referenced from Pulse Sports Kenya — originally written by Festus Chuma.
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