As of 2012, the estimated fortunes of footballers were ranked, and four Africans made it into the top 50:
- Samuel Eto’o ranked 6th with €60 million earned in 2012.
- Didier Drogba secured the 24th position with €29 million.
- Michael Essien and Yaya Touré were placed 48th and 49th, respectively, each with €19 million.
Samuel Eto’o’s wealth was attributed to his substantial salary at Anzhi Makhachkala and his endorsement deals with Puma, Ford, John Richmond, and others.
The top 10 highest-paid players in 2012 were:
- David Beckham (PSG) – €200 million
- Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona) – €134 million
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) – €130 million
- Kaka (Real Madrid) – €80 million
- Ronaldinho (Atletico Mineiro) – €73 million
- Samuel Eto’o (Anzhi Makhachkala) – €60 million
- Wayne Rooney (Manchester United) – €58 million
- Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG) – €55 million
- Rivaldo (Sao Caetano) – €53 million
- Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United) – €49 million
