Tabitha Chawinga leads African surge as Lyon’s pay power reshapes French football

Malawi international Tabitha Chawinga has emerged as the joint highest-paid player in France’s Arkema Première Ligue, underlining both her individual rise and the growing influence of African talent at the summit of European women’s football.

The forward shares top billing with France star Marie-Antoinette Katoto, with both players reportedly earning €75,000 per month at Olympique Lyonnais Féminin.

Chawinga’s position at the peak of the salary rankings marks a significant milestone for Malawian football, highlighting the expanding footprint of African players in elite competitions.

Her performances have not only justified Lyon’s financial commitment but also reinforced the club’s reputation as the dominant economic force in the French top flight. Lyon’s wage structure continues to set the benchmark, with several of the league’s highest earners concentrated within their ranks.

The financial boom is not limited to Chawinga alone. Other African-linked stars are also benefiting from the league’s upward trajectory.

France international Kadidiatou Diani, who has West African roots, is among a group of players earning €60,000 monthly, alongside established figures such as Wendie Renard and Ada Hegerberg. While not all are African nationals, their inclusion reflects the diversity and global pull of the league, where African heritage continues to shape its competitive identity.

Overall, salaries in the Arkema Première Ligue have risen steadily, with average wages increasing by approximately 15 percent in recent years. More clubs are now able to offer competitive pay, with at least eight teams exceeding the €3,000 monthly threshold, a notable improvement from just two seasons ago.

However, the financial gap remains pronounced, with Lyon far ahead of rivals such as Paris Saint-Germain Féminin and others in overall wage expenditure.

For African players, the latest figures signal both recognition and opportunity. Chawinga’s landmark earnings serve as a powerful indicator of how talent from the continent is being valued on the global stage, while also inspiring the next generation of players aiming to break into Europe’s elite leagues.

Top 10 gross monthly salaries in the Arkema Première Ligue

1. T. Chawinga (OL Lyonnes) €75,000

• M.-A. Katoto (OL Lyonnes) €75,000

3. K. Diani (OL Lyonnes) €60,000

• W. Renard (OL Lyonnes) €60,000
• A. Hegerberg (OL Lyonnes) €60,000

6. S. Bacha (OL Lyonnes) €50,000

• O. Carmona (PSG) €50,000

8. G. Mbock (PSG) €40,000

• S. Karchaoui (PSG) €40,000

10. E. De Almeida (PSG) €30,000

• M. Earps (PSG) €30,000