Cristiano Ronaldo’s match-winning hat-trick earned him £850,000 on Saturday afternoon as Manchester United saw off Norwich City.
The Portuguese star put the Red Devils 2-0 up at Old Trafford before he bagged a late winner from 25 yards in front of the Stretford End. Ronaldo has now scored 21 times for United this term and his efforts continue to keep them in the race for the top four despite several below par showings.
Ronaldo returned to Manchester in the summer following 12 years away with Real Madrid and Juventus. Included in his contract were several performance related incentives. One was a £750,000 bonus should he break the 20 goal barrier. He is also picking up £100,000 for every goal he scores on top of that, according to The Sun.
Ronaldo has scored at least 20 goals in each of his last 16 seasons – dating back to his first spell at United. There are six games remaining this term which means the five-time Ballon d’Or winner could pick up some huge bonuses. He continues to be central to the United attack which furthers his chances.
The 37-year-old will also earn £1m should he finish as the team’s top scorer. Currently Bruno Fernandes is his closest competition with the Portuguese star scoring nine times. It means the No 7 is almost certain to pick up more financial windfall.
Time is against him but should he score 30 goals this term then he will earn around £2.75m in goal related bonuses, which go alongside his already mammoth salary. Ralf Rangnick has told his players they cannot continue relying on Ronaldo to haul them out of difficult situations however following Saturday’s win.
