Erling Haaland becomes highest‑paid 25‑year‑old footballer

Erling Haaland, the 25‑year‑old Norwegian striker of Manchester City, earned an estimated $80 million over the past twelve months, according to Forbes. About $60 million came from his club contract – a base salary of roughly £27.3 million per year – while the remainder derives from sponsorships with brands such as Nike, Beats, Breitling, Dolce & Gabbana, EA, Marriott, Midea, Supercell, Unilever and Visa. The earnings make him the top‑paid athlete in his age group worldwide.

Haaland also played a pivotal role in Norway’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The national team topped Group I in the European qualifiers, scoring 37 goals and conceding only five, with Haaland contributing 16 of those goals. His performances helped Norway secure a direct spot in the tournament, marking the country’s first World Cup appearance since 1998.