Liga MX has experienced exponential growth in recent years, drawing big names from European soccer, with the latest being former Real Madrid star goalkeeper Keylor Navas. With the Costa Rican joining Pumas UNAM in a blockbuster move, comparisons have naturally emerged with his ex-teammate Sergio Ramos, who reportedly earns $5 million annually at Monterrey.
The 2025 season has seen several world-class players arrive in Mexico. Ramos signed with Rayados, while James Rodriguez joined Club Leon earlier in the year. The summer transfer window brought even more excitement: Angel Correa moved to Tigres, while both Navas and Aaron Ramsey completed moves to Pumas UNAM.
After his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired in June, Navas returned to the field in January with Argentina’s Newell’s Old Boys and also rejoined the Costa Rican national team. Now, he’s taken the next step in his career by signing with Pumas and embracing Mexican soccer.
At his unveiling, Navas revealed he spoke with Ramos before making the decision: “I also had conversations with Sergio (Ramos), he’s like a brother to me, and he told me about his experiences in Mexican football. Players like James (Rodriguez) have also come here and have a lot to offer their teams; Liga MX is growing a lot and is very good in many ways.”
Navas and Ramos’ salaries
According to La Nación in Argentina, Pumas UNAM paid $2 million to Newell’s for Navas and agreed to a two-year contract worth $2 million per season. This puts him among the highest earners in Liga MX, though still behind some marquee names, including Sergio Ramos.
As reported by beIN SPORTS and The Footy Culture podcast, Ramos earns a gross salary of $5 million at Monterrey, which includes a €4 million base and performance-based bonuses. These incentives are tied to appearances, goals, assists, and Club World Cup matches. He also receives a percentage of jersey sales and was allowed to choose his shirt number (93), in addition to retaining full control of his image rights.
Beyond salary, Ramos’ deal includes several lifestyle perks: guaranteed housing and security for his family, plus access to a personal driver available 24/7. These exclusive terms make his contract one of the most lucrative and personalized in Liga MX history.