This year Lionel Messi is declared as the richest footballer. he knocked out David Beckham.
(edit by Dannydee1978)
Lionel Messi is currently the richest footballer in the world based on yearly earnings.
He has taken the top spot from David Beckham, ending his 2 year stint at the top.
The 22-year-old Argentine forward pockets an estimated £29.6 million annually, closely followed by David Beckham at £27.3m, while Real Madrid hotshot Cristiano Ronaldo sits in third place with his estimated earnings having hit the £27m mark.
Lionel Messi only takes the top spot due to a £3.6 million bonus earned for winning the treble last season with Barcelona.
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