How Much Do Pro Footballers Really Earn in Lower Leagues? Salaries in Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Africa

When people think of professional footballers, they imagine the millions earned by stars like Mbappé or Haaland.
But the reality for most pro players around the world—especially in lower leagues or lesser-known countries—is very different.

If you’re aiming to sign a professional or semi-professional contract abroad, here’s a realistic and unfiltered look at footballer salaries across different regions.

🇹🇷 Turkey – 2nd and 3rd Divisions (1. Lig & 2. Lig)

2nd Division – 1. Lig
⚽ Average monthly salary: €3,000 – €10,000
🎁 Includes signing bonuses and match bonuses
3rd Division – 2. Lig
⚽ Monthly salary: €1,200 – €3,000
❗ Some clubs are semi-pro, and late payments are not uncommon

💡 Pro tip: Foreign players often accept lower salaries at first to prove themselves and move up quickly.

🇦🇿 Azerbaijan – Premier League

⚽ Average salary for foreign players: €2,000 – €5,000/month
🔥 Top players (especially from Europe or Brazil) can earn €8,000+

📉 Some clubs have payment delays – make sure to work with a verified agent and get a solid contract.

🌍 Africa – Top Local Leagues

🇲🇦 Morocco – Botola Pro

⚽ Salary: €1,500 – €6,000/month
Big clubs like Wydad or Raja can pay €10,000+ to star players

🇸🇳 Senegal – Ligue 1

⚽ Monthly salary: €300 – €1,000
Many players also work part-time or have other income sources

🇨🇲 Cameroon – Elite One

⚽ Salary: €100 – €500/month
Clubs may offer housing and meal bonuses, but stability is limited

🌎 South America – Lower Divisions

🇧🇷 Brazil – Série C / D

⚽ Salary: €500 – €2,000/month
Short contracts (3–6 months) and performance-based pay are common

🇨🇴 Colombia – 2nd Division

⚽ Salary: €800 – €1,500/month

🎯 These leagues can be a stepping stone to bigger markets if you perform well.

🧠 The Reality: It’s Not Glamorous at First

Being a professional footballer doesn’t always mean instant wealth—especially if you’re just starting out in smaller leagues.
But these salaries still represent a chance to make a living playing the game you love, gain experience, and aim higher in a season or two.

✅ What You Need to Get There:

A complete, visible profile on platforms like Globe Strikers
Clear videos of matches and training sessions
The mindset to accept a modest beginning (new country, low pay, uncertainty)