Messi tops football's rich list

Paris - Lionel Messi tops France Football magazine's list of richest players for the fifth time in six years after hitting an estimated €65 million in revenue last year.

The Barcelona forward edged Real Madrid midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo in the list, with Barcelona striker Neymar, Paris Saint-Germain defender Thiago Silva and Manchester United forward Robin Van Persie completing the top five.

The French magazine, which ran its survey for the 17th time, makes its estimations by adding salaries, bonuses and advertisement revenues.

According to France Football, Ronaldo earned €54 million last year, while Neymar cashed in €36.5 million.

A total of 12 players, including Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) and Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), earned more than €20 million last year.