Allan Saint-Maximin Reveals €45 Million Saudi Earnings in Rare Disclosure
The former Newcastle winger rejected a €26 million buyout for his board game venture.
1Unprecedented Salary Disclosure
Allan Saint-Maximin has publicly disclosed earning €45 million net over three years while playing in Saudi Arabia. This rare admission defies the typical secrecy surrounding professional footballers' wages. The 29-year-old forward shared these figures on social media to justify his decision to reject a significant buyout offer for his personal business project.
2Rejecting Business Buyout
The player turned down a €26 million offer to sell his custom-designed board game venture, Helios. Saint-Maximin stated that he prioritizes retaining control over the enterprise to foster job creation and host tournaments for underprivileged communities. He emphasized that his financial security from his Saudi contract allows him to pursue these social goals.
3Legacy at Newcastle United
Signed from Nice in 2019, Saint-Maximin became a cult hero during a challenging period for Newcastle United. Known for his electric dribbling and unique style, he provided a rare source of excitement for fans before the club's 2021 takeover. His connection with the supporters remains a defining aspect of his time in England.
4Transfer Scrutiny and PIF
In 2023, Saint-Maximin was sold to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli for approximately £23 million. This transfer faced intense scrutiny from rival Premier League teams because both Newcastle and Al-Ahli share majority ownership under the Saudi Public Investment Fund. The deal highlighted complex regulatory questions regarding multi-club ownership models in modern professional football.
5Career Trajectory Post-Newcastle
After his debut season in Jeddah alongside teammates like Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino, the Frenchman moved frequently. He spent time on loan at Turkish club Fenerbahce under Jose Mourinho before a brief stint at Club America in Mexico. He eventually returned to Europe to play for Racing Club de Lens before joining Charlotte FC.
6Focus on Helios Project
The board game venture, Helios, represents a long-term passion for the winger, who claims to have spent years designing and testing the product. He has already distributed five-figure sums in prize money to amateur players. This project serves as his primary focus for social impact beyond his professional football career in the MLS.
7Financial Philosophy and Values
Saint-Maximin dismissed the €26 million buyout offer as insufficient compared to his current net worth and his vision for the company. He noted that while the offer was substantial, his primary motivation is changing lives rather than immediate profit. He suggested that only a billion-euro valuation might prompt a serious discussion about selling.
8Broader Industry Context
The disclosure highlights the massive capital influx into the Saudi Pro League and its impact on player earnings. By openly discussing his net income, Saint-Maximin provides a rare glimpse into the financial realities of high-profile transfers. His case underscores how players are increasingly leveraging their earnings to build independent business portfolios outside sport.