Whenever you think about entertainment in football, the Samba boys certainly come to mind, don’t they? For ages, Brazilian footballers have dazzled fans across Europe’s biggest stages, showcasing their flair, skill and passion for the game.
From literally unstoppable attackers, to indomitable midfield generals, to rock-solid defenders, Brazilian players have become indispensable to elite clubs in the modern game. Not only do these stars dominate on the pitch, they also command staggering salaries that reflect their immense value.
Soccernet.football delves into the top 10 highest-paid Brazilian players in Europe, highlighting the massive contracts that showcase their global appeal and irreplaceable talent. Who leads the pack, and what makes these players worth their weight in gold? Let’s find out.
10. Gleison Bremer (₤178,077-per-week)
The towering center-back has become a defensive linchpin for Juventus since his move from city rivals Torino in 2022. Bremer’s significant financial rewards reflect his importance in the Bianconeri backline and his status as one of Serie A’s top defenders. Unfortunately, the Brazilian is currently out with a cruciate ligament injury and is expected to be out for almost a year.
9. Gabriel Martinelli (£180,000-per-week)
The electric winger has played a key part in Arsenal’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta in the last couple of years. Martinelli is known for his relentless pressing and ability to score crucial goals. His recent contract extension included a major pay rise which shows the faith that the Gunners have in their Brazilian star.
8. Antony (£200,000-per-week)
Antony’s move from Ajax Amsterdam to Manchester United in 2022 for a hefty transfer fee came with a significant paycheck. However, the winger is yet to repay the Red Devils’ confidence with performances on the pitch so far. This has led many to consider the 24-year-old one of the biggest Man United flops in recent memory.
7. Rodrygo (₤240,385-per-week)
Rodrygo has steadily risen through the ranks at Real Madrid to become a very crucial player in Carlo Ancelotti’s setup. The 23-year-old forward is known for his composure in big moments, proving to be just as important as Los Blancos’ other mega stars. Rodrygo is certainly a cornerstone of Madrid’s future and his salary matches his growing reputation.
6. Raphinha (₤240,385-per-week)
While Raphinha earns just the same amount as his compatriot Rodrygo, the Barcelona forward places higher on our list on account of his magnificent rebirth under current Blaugrana boss Hansi Flick. Barca’s investment in the former Leeds United man in the summer of 2022 is finally paying off and he’s now looking like a player worth every penny of his paycheck.
5. Gabriel Jesus (£265,000-per-week)
Jesus swapped Manchester for North London after failing to cement himself as Pep Guardiola’s preferred man to lead Man City’s attack. Surprisingly, the Brazilian has also failed to make Arsenal’s no. 9 role his own, with Arteta preferring to play midfielder Kai Havertz upfront. While Jesus might be disgruntled about his level of involvement, he can have no complaints about his paycheck.
4. Eder Militao (₤280,385-per-week)
Militao has developed into one of the best defenders in Europe at Real Madrid. His ability to perform consistently under pressure has earned him his role as a defensive mainstay for the Spanish champions. Sadly, Militao suffered a cruciate ligament injury earlier in November and is set for a long spell on the sidelines.
3. Marquinhos (₤323,077-per-week)
As captain of Paris Saint-Germain, Marquinhos is not only a defensive stalwart but also a leader both on and off the pitch. The 30-year-old is into his 11th season at the Parcs des Princes, winning nine Ligue 1 titles in that time. His loyalty to the French giants has earned him one of the highest salaries among defenders globally.
2. Casemiro (£350,000-per-week)
Casemiro’s move to Manchester United in the summer of 2022 was a statement of intent by the Premier League giants, and his hefty salary reflects his pedigree. The Brazilian’s time at Old Trafford has not been entirely what many would have envisaged but the five-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid has proved to be a decent acquisition for United.
1. Vinicius Junior (₤400,577-per-week)
Vinicius is the highest-paid Brazilian player in Europe? Hardly any surprises here. The Real Madrid winger is currently one of the best players in the world and his exploits for Los Blancos during their La Liga and Champions League triumph last season, tell the entire story. Even the arrival of Kylian Mbappe at the Spanish capital has failed to dim Vini’s shine.