Analysis and rationale of Erling Haaland’s new and “a bit crazy” salary
Víctor García
January 21, 2025

Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland, who will turn 25 in July, has just signed a 10-year contract with Manchester City, until 2034, securing a basic salary of 500,000 pounds a week-about 591,000 euros; $612,000. Even the Norwegian striker himself described it as “a bit crazy.” However, from an economic and football perspective, this figure may make sense, especially considering the phenomenon known as the “superstar effect.”

In 2023, the world’s 50 highest-paid athletes earned $3.88 billion, according to Forbes. Haaland, with total earnings of $61 million, ranked 27th on the list, far behind Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé. His salary reflects not only his talent, but also the value fans are willing to pay to watch one of the most prominent stars in football today.

HAALAND’S NEW CONTRACT

Haaland has scored 80 Premier League goals in two and a half seasons, a figure that puts him above the likes of Mohamed Salah, who has scored 55 in the same period. With consistent performances and many years ahead of him in his career, his new contract appears to be a safe bet for City.

Furthermore, an analysis by Twenty First Group published by ‘The Guardian’ shows that more and more elite players are maintaining their level well into their 30s. In 2024, 32% of the world’s top 200 players were aged 30 or over, an upward trend that suggests Haaland could remain a top scorer for the majority of his contract.

The “superstar effect,” a term coined by economist Sherwin Rosen in the 1980s, explains why top players generate a disproportionate economic impact. Football’s global reach amplifies this phenomenon. Today, goals by Mbappé or plays by Patrick Mahomes or LeBron James are broadcast in seconds to millions of people around the world, increasing fans’ willingness to pay to witness performances by these stars. The phenomenon also has psychological and commercial roots of wanting to join the club where the best are.

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