Ibrahim Aliyu Shines in MLS: Salary and Prospects of the Talented Nigerian

Upon joining Houston Dynamo FC, forward Ibrahim Aliyu quickly established himself as a leader of the team. This season, the young Nigerian not only aims for trophies but also for a contract extension or a possible return to European Top-5 leagues.

What is Ibrahim Aliyu’s Salary in Houston Dynamo FC?

Former Nigeria U20 striker joined the MLS club in spring 2023, with an agreement running until December 31, 2025. Over two years in the USA, he will earn €778,508 excluding bonuses. For the 2024 season, Aliyu will earn €389,254, equivalent to €7,486 per week.

Team Salary Overview: Aliyu – The Highest-Paid Player Under 23

Houston Dynamo FC’s total expenditure on salaries during the 2024 season amounts to €10,912,101, which is €209,848 per week. The highest-paid player in the team is central midfielder Hector Herrera, the former Mexico national team player, earning €4,350,439 annually, or €83,662 per week. 

Ibrahim Aliyu ranks eighth in salary in the team and seventh among foreign and non-European players. He also holds the second position among African players in Houston Dynamo FC, with only Moroccan Amine Bassi earning nearly €114,500 more. Furthermore, Aliyu leads as the highest-paid player under 23 years old in the American team, with Colombian Nelson Quinones earning nearly half his salary.

Career Salary Comparison

Comparing salaries over his career, after three successful years in Croatia, the Nigerian forward moved to MLS. His contract with Houston Dynamo FC increased his salary almost sixfold, making it the highest in his career. And now, Ibrahim Aliyu Ranks Second Among Highest-Paid Nigerian MLS Players.

Market Value: Steady Rise Since Adult Football Debut

During three seasons at NK Lokomotiva Zagreb, Aliyu became a key player, registering 24 goal involvements. His successful start in Europe led to more than a twofold increase in his transfer value by the time he moved to MLS. In his debut season with Houston Dynamo FC, he scored six goals and helped the club secure its second U.S. Open Cup in history. Thanks to his standout performances, Aliyu’s transfer value increased by over 1.5 times, reaching its peak. Currently, Transfermarkt values Aliyu at €2 million, placing him among the five most expensive players in the American club.

Achievements with the National Team

Ibrahim Aliyu made his debut for the Nigerian U20 national team in 2019, participating in the African Nations Cup youth tournament. While the team reached the third-place match, they lost to South Africa. He has yet to be called up to the senior Nigerian national team.

Football and Financial Prospects

Starting the 2024 season as a regular player for the American team, Ibrahim Aliyu has already made several impactful contributions. If he continues to score and helps Houston Dynamo FC win more trophies, there’s a chance the club will activate the contract extension option. Additionally, his young age and impressive statistics could attract interest from stronger European teams.