Real Madrid’s Brazilian star, Vinicius Jr, has solidified his place as one of the most valuable players in world football, both on and off the pitch. With a recent salary hike following his FIFA The Best award win, Vinicius has surpassed Kylian Mbappé as the club’s top earner. However, his contract situation, coupled with interest from Saudi Arabia, raises questions about his long-term future with the Spanish giants.
Vinicius Jr overtakes Mbappé as Real Madrid’s highest-paid player.
Vinicius Jr’s remarkable 2023-2024 season, capped by a second UEFA Champions League victory and his FIFA The Best award, has triggered a significant salary increase. According to Spanish outlet AS, the Brazilian forward’s annual pay will rise from €15 million to €20 million for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 seasons. This new figure places him above Kylian Mbappé, who reportedly earns €30 million gross annually but takes home a lower net sum due to Spain’s tax regulations.
The financial rewards for Vinicius don’t end there. His contract includes additional clauses tied to individual accolades such as the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best awards. Should he secure another major individual trophy or even finish as a finalist, his salary is expected to climb further. This reflects Real Madrid’s strategy of incentivizing performance while maintaining competition within the squad.
Saudi Arabia looms as Real Madrid faces contract uncertainty.
Despite his current deal running until 2027, Vinicius Jr’s future at Real Madrid is far from guaranteed. Reports suggest that no formal negotiations for a contract extension have been initiated by the club, leaving a window of opportunity for external suitors. The Saudi Pro League, known for its lucrative offers, has been persistently linked with the 24-year-old winger. While Vinicius has not openly expressed interest in a move to the Gulf, his silence on the matter has fueled speculation.
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is reportedly keen to secure Vinicius’s long-term future, but the club may need to act swiftly. The Brazilian’s current position as one of the best players in the world places him in a strong negotiating position. According to insiders, Vinicius may seek a deal closer to Mbappé’s current earnings, especially given his growing importance to the team. In just 20 matches this season, the winger has already tallied 13 goals and 9 assists, underlining his critical role in Real Madrid’s success.
Pressure mounts on Real Madrid to retain their star.
Vinicius Jr’s rise to becoming a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s squad is undeniable. However, the club risks alienating him if it fails to meet his financial expectations or address his future promptly. Previous reports have indicated that Vinicius values his role and legacy at the Santiago Bernabéu, but the allure of a record-breaking Saudi offer could complicate matters. The Saudi Pro League has demonstrated its willingness to offer astronomical wages to lure top players, and Vinicius’s name remains high on their wishlist.
Additionally, the internal dynamics at Real Madrid could be at stake. With Mbappé’s arrival this summer, questions were raised about how the team’s hierarchy and wage structure would evolve. So far, Vinicius has proven that he can coexist and even outperform Mbappé in certain metrics, both on the field and financially. Yet this competition could also prompt the Brazilian to consider his options elsewhere if he feels undervalued compared to his French teammate.
What’s next for Vinicius and Real Madrid?
As the 2024-2025 season progresses, Real Madrid will need to prioritize clarity regarding Vinicius Jr’s future. The club cannot afford to lose a player of his caliber, especially as he continues to win over fans and deliver results. The coming months will likely determine whether Vinicius cements his place as a long-term icon at Madrid or explores new horizons abroad.
For now, Vinicius Jr remains a central figure for the reigning European champions, but the clock is ticking. Real Madrid must find a balance between meeting the player’s financial demands and maintaining the club’s economic stability. One thing is certain—Vinicius’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing, and his next career move will have significant implications not just for Real Madrid, but for the global football landscape.
