Oscar Net Worth

What is Oscar dos Santos Emboaba's Net Worth and Salary?

Oscar dos Santos Emboaba is a Brazilian football player who has a net worth of $120 million. Once regarded as one of Brazil's brightest young talents, Oscar made his name in Europe with Chelsea FC, where he won multiple major titles before becoming one of the highest-paid athletes in the world with a record-breaking transfer to China's Shanghai SIPG (later Shanghai Port FC). Though his move to the Chinese Super League sparked debate about ambition versus financial security, Oscar has remained unapologetic about his choices, emphasizing his humble roots and lifelong dedication to supporting his family.

Early Life

Oscar was born on September 9, 1991, in Americana, São Paulo, Brazil. Raised in a working-class household, he developed a passion for soccer at a young age, playing street football before joining the youth academy of São Paulo FC. He quickly stood out for his intelligence on the ball and his ability to create scoring opportunities, earning comparisons to Brazilian greats known for combining flair with discipline.

After a brief legal dispute with São Paulo FC over his contract, Oscar transferred to Internacional in 2010, where his performances began to attract international attention. His technical precision, energy, and maturity earned him a spot on Brazil's U20 national team, which won the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup. That same year, he debuted for Brazil's senior team, marking the beginning of an international career that included appearances in both the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 Olympic Games, where he helped Brazil earn a silver medal.

Chelsea Success

In 2012, at just 21 years old, Oscar signed with Chelsea FC in a transfer worth approximately $30 million. His arrival coincided with a period of transition for the club following its Champions League triumph that same year. Known for his quick feet and sharp passing, Oscar quickly became a key figure in the midfield, blending technical skill with tireless work rate.

During his time at Chelsea, Oscar played under several high-profile managers, including José Mourinho and Antonio Conte. He contributed to major victories, helping the club win the Premier League (2014–15, 2016–17), the UEFA Europa League (2012–13), and the EFL Cup (2014–15). Over four and a half seasons, he made more than 200 appearances for the team, scoring over 30 goals and cementing his reputation as one of the Premier League's most gifted playmakers.

Move to China

In late 2016, Oscar shocked the football world by announcing a transfer to Shanghai SIPG in the Chinese Super League, a move finalized in early 2017 for a reported $73 million—then one of the largest fees in football history. At just 25 years old and in his athletic prime, the decision drew widespread criticism from fans and pundits who saw it as a step away from top-level competition in exchange for financial gain.

Getty Images

Contracts & Earnings

Between June 2017 and June 2018, Oscar earned $30 million between salary and endorsements, which was enough to make him one of the highest-paid football players in the world.

Chelsea FC signed Oscar in 2012 with a four-year, $30 million contract. In 2017, he shocked the world when he announced a new deal with Shanghai SIPD of the Chinese Super League. His first contract paid $26.5 million per year over four years, quadrupling his former Chelsea salary. The deal was big enough to make Oscar one of the 10 highest-paid soccer players in the world at the time. Oscar received some criticism for accepting the deal. For example, former soccer player Jamie Carragher stated:

"It's all about the size of the salary, nothing else. It's shameful for a player to turn their back on their career and the chance to compete purely for money."

In response to the criticism, Oscar replied:

"China has incredible financial power and sometimes makes offers that players simply can't refuse. I come from a very poor social background in Brazil. We had nothing. This is the fruit of my hard work."

By the time he left China in late 2024, Oscar had reportedly earned around $185 million from salary alone—an extraordinary sum that placed him among the wealthiest footballers of his era.

(Photo by Feng Li/Getty Images)

Legacy and Later Career

While some critics viewed his move to China as the end of his international ambitions, Oscar has expressed pride in both his on-field achievements and his financial success. His career represents a modern football story—one where players balance personal legacy, global opportunity, and economic independence.

Oscar's time in both Europe and Asia has demonstrated his adaptability and professionalism, and he remains one of the most talented Brazilian playmakers of his generation. Even as he entered the later stages of his career, he continued to command respect for his leadership, consistency, and loyalty to the game that lifted him from poverty to global recognition.

Who's Richer?

Oscar

Compare!

Eden
Hazard