Danny Drinkwater, the professional footballer known for his time at Chelsea F.C., has achieved considerable wealth throughout his career. As of recent reports, his net worth is estimated to be approximately £38.38 million ($50 million).
His fortune comes from his extensive career in football, which spans several high-profile clubs and a significant role in Leicester City’s historic 2015-16 Premier League title win. Here’s a deeper look at how Drinkwater accumulated his wealth.
Career Earnings and Salary
Danny Drinkwater’s salary has fluctuated over the years, primarily due to his movement between top-tier clubs in the English Premier League and his time on loan.
However, his earnings from these football contracts have been substantial. As of his most recent contract with Chelsea, Drinkwater earned an impressive £120,000 per week, translating to an annual salary of £6,240,000.
Career Breakdown by Year
2022
Drinkwater continued earning £120,000 per week during his time at Chelsea, with a total of £6,240,000 for the year. However, he had been loaned out to a club in the Turkish Super League during this time.
2019-2021
His weekly salary remained consistent at £120,000, contributing to his yearly earnings of £6.24 million during his Premier League seasons with Chelsea.
2018
Drinkwater’s salary at Chelsea dropped slightly to £100,000 per week. His total income for that year amounted to £5.2 million.
2017
At Leicester City, Drinkwater earned £92,000 per week, amounting to £4.784 million annually.
2016-2015
Drinkwater’s salary was notably lower during his early years in the Premier League. He earned £27,000 per week, totaling £1.4 million annually during his time at Leicester City.
2014
In the 2014 season, his weekly earnings were £12,000, with a yearly income of £624,000.
While these figures might seem varied over time, they reflect a steadily increasing income as Drinkwater progressed through his career, from a relatively modest start to commanding significant wages as a key player for top clubs.
Endorsements and Other Sources of Income
In addition to his salary, Drinkwater likely receives income from various endorsements and sponsorships, which are common among professional footballers. Although not as publicly prominent in the endorsement sector as some of the top global stars, his consistent performance and association with high-profile clubs like Chelsea likely provide him with deals, adding to his income.
Transfers and Career Milestones
Drinkwater’s career took a major turn in 2017 when he was signed by Chelsea for a reported £35 million fee, a career-high in terms of the transfer market.
This move was based on his standout performances with Leicester City, where he was integral to their Premier League-winning campaign. His transfer not only boosted his earnings but also helped solidify his financial status.
However, his time at Chelsea wasn’t without complications, and despite receiving a high salary, Drinkwater struggled to break into Chelsea’s starting XI, leading to multiple loan moves to teams like Aston Villa and Burnley. His salary remained high during these loan spells, helping him build his wealth.
Real Estate Investments
With his wealth, Drinkwater has likely invested in real estate, a common financial move for top athletes.
His career in the Premier League, combined with his high salary at Chelsea, would have provided him with the means to purchase luxury properties.
While there is no public confirmation of specific real estate holdings, it is highly probable that he has invested in residential properties either in London or other desirable locations.
Business Ventures
Although not known for business ventures to the same extent as other footballers, it’s possible that Drinkwater has used his wealth to invest in other areas of business, particularly in areas related to football, sports management, or local ventures.
Many athletes use their wealth to diversify their income streams, and Drinkwater’s long and lucrative career suggests that he might be in a position to do so as well.
Lifestyle and Personal Wealth
Danny Drinkwater’s lifestyle reflects his financial success. He enjoys a life of luxury, which includes expensive cars, private travel, and membership in exclusive clubs.
As a player at top-tier football clubs like Chelsea, Drinkwater was afforded access to these luxuries, all contributing to his wealth accumulation.
Furthermore, with his high-profile position as a Premier League player, Drinkwater has enjoyed the perks that come with fame, including sponsorship deals, media exposure, and even lifestyle brand partnerships.
These avenues also offer additional financial support outside of his primary football-related income.
The Impact of His Divorce
Danny Drinkwater’s divorce from his wife, Stephanie, could have impacted his net worth, as it often does with high-profile athletes.
The terms of the divorce were not publicly disclosed, but like many professional athletes, the financial settlement could have influenced his overall wealth.
However, his high income over the years has ensured that his wealth remains intact and continues to grow despite personal challenges.
Charity and Philanthropy
Though not widely publicized, Drinkwater, like many athletes, may also contribute to charitable causes. Footballers often use their wealth to support charitable initiatives, whether through donations, partnerships, or foundations.
Given his stature in the sport, Drinkwater may be involved in philanthropy, further enhancing his public image and potentially impacting his financial standing indirectly.
