David De Gea's Remarkable Financial Journey in Football
David de Gea stands as one of the most accomplished goalkeepers of the modern era, having built a substantial fortune through his illustrious career. Spanning over two decades at elite European clubs, the Spanish shot-stopper has cemented his status among football's financial elite with an estimated net worth of approximately $75 to $80 million as of 2026.
From Atletico Madrid to Manchester United Stardom
The foundation of De Gea's career began with Atletico Madrid's B team before his promotion to the main squad in 2009. After three formative years in La Liga, his trajectory changed dramatically when he joined Premier League giants Manchester United in 2011. This move marked the beginning of a twelve-year association that would define both his sporting legacy and financial standing.
Record-Breaking Manchester United Contracts
De Gea's financial ascent reached unprecedented heights during his tenure at Old Trafford, where he became one of the highest-paid players in English football. His earnings saw a remarkable upward trajectory throughout his Manchester United years, culminating in a landmark six-year contract extension in 2019 valued at approximately $117 million. This agreement provided an average annual salary of $19.5 million, solidifying his position among football's top earners.
By the time he departed Manchester United in 2023, De Gea had accumulated career earnings exceeding $135 million from the club alone. His longevity at a single top-tier institution allowed for increasingly lucrative negotiations, avoiding the frequent moves many players undertake for signing bonuses.
Serie A Transition with Fiorentina
Following a year as a free agent after leaving Manchester United, De Gea embarked on a new chapter with Serie A side Fiorentina in 2024. Initially accepting a significant reduction in wages to approximately €1.6 million ($1.7M) annually, his exceptional performances in Italy prompted contract renegotiations. Recent reports indicate his compensation is set to double to around €2.4 million ($2.6M) per season through an extension, demonstrating his continued value in elite European football.
Strategic Business Ventures Beyond Football
Beyond his on-field achievements, David De Gea has strategically diversified his income through ventures in the digital economy. In 2021, he founded Rebels Gaming, an esports organization he describes as a "dream come true" project that applies professional sports values to the technological space.
The Spaniard has also maintained lucrative endorsement partnerships throughout his career, most notably with global sportswear giant Adidas. His brand value remains particularly strong in both Spain and the United Kingdom, generating consistent secondary income streams that complement his playing salary.
De Gea's financial success story represents a perfect convergence of sporting excellence, contract negotiation savvy, and business acumen. His journey from Atletico Madrid's youth system to becoming one of the wealthiest goalkeepers in football history serves as a testament to sustained performance at the highest level across multiple European leagues.
