Manchester United's squad is one of the most expensive in English football, and the 2026/27 season is no exception. After a rocky start—a 2-0 loss to Hull City on the opening weekend—the Red Devils are looking to bounce back in the Premier League and make a deep run in the Champions League. That ambition comes with a hefty price tag, as the club maintains one of the largest wage bills in the country.
From academy graduates to marquee signings, the salary structure at Old Trafford reflects a blend of loyalty, potential, and proven talent. Here's a breakdown of the ten highest-paid players at Manchester United for this campaign, based on gross annual figures.
The top earners at Old Trafford
10. Kobbie Mainoo – The 21-year-old midfielder has become a symbol of United's youth development. His composure in high-pressure matches has earned him a spot in the top ten, with a gross salary of €10.5 million (net €5.77 million).
9. Mason Mount – Since arriving from Chelsea in 2023, Mount has made 72 appearances, contributing seven goals and two assists. His contract pays him €12.18 million gross annually (net €6.7 million).
8. Luke Shaw – A veteran left-back who has overcome serious injuries to become a reliable figure. With 326 appearances, five goals, and 30 assists, Shaw earns €12.18 million gross (net €6.7 million).
7. Bryan Mbeumo – The Cameroonian forward joined from Brentford and has already made an impact, scoring 12 goals in 35 games. His salary matches Shaw's at €12.18 million gross (net €6.7 million).
6. Matheus Cunha – The Brazilian international, formerly of Wolverhampton, has contributed ten goals and four assists in 36 appearances. He also earns €12.18 million gross (net €6.7 million).
5. Harry Maguire – The central defender, who arrived from Leicester City in 2019, remains a high earner despite fluctuating form. His gross annual salary is €12.94 million (net €7.12 million).
4. Benjamin Sesko – The Slovenian striker, a marquee young signing, has scored 12 goals in 33 appearances. He earns €14.61 million gross (net €8.03 million).
3. Matthijs de Ligt – The Dutch defender, signed after stints at Juventus and Bayern Munich, is currently recovering from a long-term injury. He has 56 appearances and three goals for the club, earning €14.84 million gross (net €8.16 million).
2. Bruno Fernandes – The Portuguese captain is the team's on-field leader and one of the Premier League's top midfielders. His contract pays him €22.83 million gross annually (net €12.56 million).
1. Marcus Rashford – The English forward, who returned from a loan spell at FC Barcelona, tops the wage list alongside Fernandes. The academy graduate aims to reclaim his starting spot under Michael Carrick, earning €22.83 million gross (net €12.56 million).
This wage structure highlights United's commitment to competing at the highest level, but it also raises questions about squad balance and financial sustainability. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on whether these investments translate into trophies.
For more on the financial side of football, check out our piece on Liga MX's biggest transfer fees, or the latest on Manchester City's bid for Enzo Fernández.
