World football superstar Kylian Mbappé is a perfect example of exceptional talent which is reflected in his earnings. From his beginnings at AS Monaco to his record transfer to PSG, then his departure for Real Madrid, his contracts have become emblematic of the evolution of salaries in modern football. This article explores his financial journey, while offering an analysis of the issues linked to his image and his influence.
Beginnings at AS Monaco: a meteoric rise
Kylian Mbappé began his professional career at AS Monaco in 2015 at the age of 16. His first professional contract signed in 2016 guarantees him a salary of around 1 million euros per year. At the time, his salary was relatively modest by star football standards, but his performance on the pitch quickly attracted the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs.
In 2016-2017, he burst onto the international scene. With 26 goals in all competitions, he played a central role in Monaco’s conquest of the Ligue 1 title and their journey to the semi-final of the Champions League. These feats make him one of the most sought-after young players on the market.
The transfer to PSG: a new era
In 2017, Mbappé joined Paris Saint-Germain on loan with an obligation to purchase for 180 million euros, a record amount for such a young player. His salary then increased to 17.5 million euros per year, making him one of the best paid players in Ligue 1.
Between 2017 and 2022, Mbappé experienced a continuous rise, becoming the leading figure of PSG. During this period, he accumulated numerous national titles, including several Ligue 1 championships and various national cups. Alongside his performances on the pitch, Mbappé stands out for his speed and precision, often compared to a floorballcharacterized by its speed and control. However, despite these domestic successes and individual dominance, PSG’s ultimate goal of winning the Champions League remains out of reach, fueling criticism of the club’s European performance.
Historic renewal in 2022
In May 2022, Mbappé decided to extend his contract with PSG despite very attractive offers from clubs like Real Madrid. This new contract, lasting three years, sets records. His gross annual salary exceeds 72 million euros, in addition to an exceptional signing bonus of 125 million euros.
This contract is not only a reflection of his sporting performances, but also of his influence off the field. By becoming one of the highest paid athletes in the world, Mbappé embodies the evolution of modern football where image-related income plays a key role.
Summary table of salary evolution:
| Period | Club | Gross annual salary | Notes |
| 2016-2017 | AS Monaco | 1 million € | First professional contract |
| 2017-2022 | PSG | €17.5 million | Initial contract |
| 2022-2025 | PSG | €72 million | Record contract with signing bonus |
| 2025-present | real Madrid | €26 million | Image rights at 100%, strategic compensation |
The transfer to Real Madrid: a new chapter
In 2025, Mbappé joined Real Madrid, a long-awaited transfer. Although his gross annual salary at Real (26 million euros) is lower than what he received at PSG, the agreement includes an essential clause: he retains 100% of his image rights. The move illustrates the growing importance of image management in modern football.
Mbappé thus becomes one of the few players to have full control over his commercial rights, allowing him to significantly increase his total revenue through his partnerships with brands such as Nike, Hublot and EA Sports.
The global impact: well beyond the field
Mbappé’s salary evolution reflects his status as an exceptional player, but also his influence as a cultural icon. His income far exceeds his salaries thanks to advertising contracts and his strategic positioning as a leader in global sport.
Challenges and perspectives for the future
Mbappé’s financial choices raise interesting questions about the future of sports contracts:
- Image rights : The decision to prioritize the management of its image rights could become a model for high-level players.
- Impact of sponsors : With increasing revenue from sponsors, the influence of clubs may decrease in the future.
- Sports issues : Mbappé will have to balance his sporting and commercial ambitions to maintain his status.
Kylian Mbappé embodies the transformation of modern football. His career, from AS Monaco to PSG, then to Real Madrid, illustrates the growing importance of financial issues and image in sport. The next steps in his career could redefine the standards for future generations.
