Erling Haaland has cemented his position as the Premier League's highest taxpayer, with the Manchester City forward contributing a staggering £16.9 million annually to the UK Treasury. This revelation comes from the latest Sunday Times Football Tax List, which highlights the significant fiscal contributions of England's top football stars and underscores the immense financial scale of modern professional football. The Norwegian international's substantial tax bill is directly linked to his lucrative contract extension signed in January 2025, when he committed his long-term future to Manchester City with a deal that runs until 2034, making him the highest-paid footballer in the United Kingdom.
According to financial analysis from Capology, the prolific striker earns approximately £525,000 per week in basic wages, translating to an eye-watering £27.3 million per year from his on-field activities alone. When factoring in his numerous endorsement deals and commercial partnerships with global brands, his total annual income climbs considerably higher, with Sportico ranking him as the 18th best-paid athlete on the planet. The Sunday Times Football Tax List, published on January 31, provides a fascinating insight into the tax contributions of the Premier League's elite, revealing that the division's top stars collectively pay hundreds of millions in income tax and national insurance, despite recent discussions about potential loopholes regarding image rights taxation. This transparency offers a rare glimpse into the financial responsibilities that accompany the glamorous lifestyles of football's superstars.
Following Haaland in second place is Liverpool's Egyptian king, Mohamed Salah. The winger, who recently extended his own Anfield contract, earns a reported £400,000 per week plus an estimated £10 million in annual bonuses. These substantial earnings result in a hefty tax bill of £14.5 million per year, firmly placing him behind his Manchester City rival but still far ahead of most professional athletes globally. Manchester United's Brazilian midfielder Casemiro occupies third position, earning a basic salary of £350,000 per week with additional performance-related bonuses boosting his overall compensation. His tax contribution amounts to £10.9 million annually. The fourth spot belongs to free agent Raheem Sterling, who recently terminated his contract with Chelsea. During his time at Stamford Bridge, the England international was paying £9.8 million per year in tax, though this figure is expected to decrease now that he has left the club. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk rounds out the top five, with the Dutch defender contributing £9.7 million annually to the Treasury, demonstrating Liverpool's significant wage commitment to maintaining their world-class talent.
The list continues with a tie for sixth place between Bruno Fernandes of United and Bernardo Silva of City, who each pay approximately £9 million in annual tax, highlighting the similar earning power at both Manchester clubs. Omar Marmoush, who recently joined Chelsea, appears in eighth position with a tax bill of £8.8 million. Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus follows closely behind in ninth, paying £7.9 million per year, while his teammate Kai Havertz completes the top ten with an annual tax contribution of £7.8 million. The presence of multiple players from the same clubs demonstrates how top teams cluster high earners to maintain competitive squads capable of challenging for major honors.
Robert Watts, who compiled the comprehensive tax list, offered valuable insight into the broader implications. He noted that the Premier League acts as a magnet for global talent, generating substantial revenue for Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Treasury. Watts emphasized that regardless of their country of origin, all players are subject to UK income tax and national insurance on their substantial earnings. Watts also highlighted an important upcoming change in tax legislation. The Chancellor's recent Budget announced plans to crack down on image rights taxation, a area where many players have previously benefited from lower tax rates. Currently, footballers can channel income from endorsements through separate companies, often resulting in reduced tax liabilities. The proposed reforms aim to close this loophole, potentially increasing the tax burden on players' off-field earnings significantly.
This regulatory shift raises questions about potential consequences for the football industry. Some analysts speculate that clubs may need to increase player salaries to offset the higher tax payments, which could ultimately impact fans through rising ticket prices and merchandise costs. Others argue that the Premier League's financial strength means clubs can absorb these costs without passing them to supporters. However, the full effects remain to be seen as the new regulations are implemented and clubs adjust their financial strategies. The substantial tax contributions underscore the Premier League's economic significance beyond entertainment.
Haaland's position at the top reflects not only his extraordinary goal-scoring prowess—151 goals in 179 appearances since his 2022 arrival—but also his immense commercial value. As Manchester City's marquee player, his financial footprint extends far beyond the pitch, making him one of the most valuable assets in English football both sporting and fiscally. His case exemplifies how modern footballers are not just athletes but significant economic contributors whose success directly benefits public finances. As the league continues to attract the world's best talent, the Treasury stands to benefit significantly from these high earners, particularly if the proposed image rights tax reforms come into effect.