Is Martin Erlić just another name in the long list of Croatian defenders, or is he financially climbing into elite territory? The Bologna centre-back, who stood tall for Croatia in the 2022 World Cup squad, has not only impressed on the field but also made smart moves off it. At 27, with transfers across clubs like Sassuolo, Spezia, and Bologna, his financial rise deserves serious attention.
Martin Erlić has built an estimated net worth of €2.5–€4 million as of 2025. With annual earnings close to €1 million at Bologna and previous stints in Serie A and Serie B, his financial story is one of steady growth. From his Serie C debut at Südtirol to winning the 2025 Coppa Italia with Bologna, every step has added to his value.
But this is just the beginning of the financial breakdown we’re offering. At hekimoglutrabzonfk.com, we’ve analyzed his earnings, contracts, market value peaks, and even his role in Croatia’s World Cup run. So, let’s dive deeper into the wealth playbook of Martin Erlić and see why experts believe his financial peak might still be ahead.
Martin Erlić Quick Facts
Contents
- 1 Martin Erlić Quick Facts
- 2 What is the Net Worth Of Martin Erlić in 2025?
- 3 What is the Salary/Income of Martin Erlić in 2025?
- 4 Martin Erlić’s Detailed Earnings by Year
- 5 Career Earnings
- 6 An In-Depth Analysis of Personal Awards and Their Influence on Contracts and Endorsements
- 7 Transfer Fees and Market Value
- 8 The Impact of Peak Market Value on His Career
- 9 A Comprehensive Overview of Endorsement Deals with Top Brands
- 10 Important FAQs about Martin Erlić
- 11 Conclusion
As part of our ongoing series at hekimoglutrabzonfk.com, we bring you an exclusive dive into the life and financial blueprint of Martin Erlić, a rising star in Croatian football. From his early days at youth academies to becoming a key part of Bologna FC and Croatia’s national setup, his career has been more than just athletic—it’s a study in financial growth. Let’s explore who he is, how he earns, and what drives his market value upward.
Below is a detailed table covering every vital detail you need to know about him. We’ve compiled his biographical, financial, and professional data—all verified through factual records and player databases.
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Martin Erlić |
| Popular Name | Martin Erlić |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | January 24, 1998 |
| Age | 27 |
| Birthplace | Zadar, Croatia |
| Nationality | Croatian |
| Ethnicity | European (Croatian) |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Net Worth | €2.5 – €4 million (2025 est.) |
| Source of Wealth | Professional football, bonuses, match fees |
| Height | 1.92 m (6 ft 4 in) |
| Position(s) | Centre-back |
| Foot | Right |
| Current Club | Bologna FC |
| Joined | August 2, 2024 |
| Contract Expires | 2026 (est.) |
| Market Value | Current: €3M / Highest: ~€6M (2023 est.) |
| Team Information | Bologna FC, Shirt Number 5 |
| Youth Career | – 2008–2010: Raštane – 2010–2012: Dinamo Zagreb – 2012–2014: Rijeka – 2014–2015: Parma – 2015–2017: Sassuolo |
| Senior Career | – 2017–2019: Sassuolo (0 apps, 0 gls) – 2017–2018: Südtirol (loan, 30 apps, 1 goal) – 2018–2019: Spezia (loan, 0 apps) – 2019–2021: Spezia (50 apps, 3 goals) – 2021–2024: Sassuolo (60 apps, 1 goal) – 2021–2022: Spezia (loan, 30 apps, 2 goals) – 2024–Present: Bologna (8 apps, 0 goals as of May 2025) |
| International Career | – 2015: Croatia U17 (10 apps, 1 goal) – 2015: Croatia U18 (3 apps) – 2016: Croatia U19 (11 apps) – 2022–Present: Croatia Senior Team (10 apps) |
| Medal Record | – FIFA World Cup 2022: Third Place (Croatia) – UEFA Nations League 2023: Runner-up – Coppa Italia 2025: Winner (Bologna FC) |
What is the Net Worth Of Martin Erlić in 2025?
As of 2025, Martin Erlić holds an estimated net worth between €2.5 million and €4 million, driven largely by his Serie A salaries and club bonuses. He earns approximately €800K–€1M annually with Bologna FC and continues to benefit from match fees with the Croatian national team. Compared to other defenders in similar positions, his financial status reflects consistency and growth rather than superstar spikes.
He shares the field with some notable peers like Josip Šutalo, Duje Ćaleta-Car, and Luka Ivanušec, whose earnings have followed parallel trajectories. While others may hold higher transfer values or play for more commercially exposed teams, his career demonstrates a steady financial build-up anchored in performance. Below is a quick comparison table of relevant figures in his circle.
| Name | Estimated Net Worth | Primary Income Source |
|---|---|---|
| Martin Erlić | €2.5M – €4M | Bologna FC salary, bonuses |
| Josip Šutalo | €5M – €6M | Dinamo Zagreb, UEFA match fees |
| Duje Ćaleta-Car | €6M – €7M | Lyon salary, Croatian NT caps |
| Luka Ivanušec | €3.5M – €4.5M | Feyenoord salary, endorsements |
| Domagoj Vida | €8M – €10M | AEK Athens salary, senior NT role |
What is the Salary/Income of Martin Erlić in 2025?
In 2025, Martin Erlić earns an estimated annual salary of €800,000 to €1 million as a central defender for Bologna FC. After his transfer from Sassuolo in August 2024, he secured a new contract offering a higher base salary than his previous deals. This contract, likely valid until 2026, includes match appearance bonuses and performance-based incentives that contribute to his total cash flow.
His income stream isn’t limited to club wages. As a player with 10 caps for the Croatian national team, he also benefits from international match fees and tournament participation bonuses. He played a financial role in Croatia’s 2022 World Cup third-place finish and the 2023 UEFA Nations League runner-up campaign, both of which likely added bonuses to his bank account.
Compared to other defenders of his profile in Serie A, his earnings are competitive, though not at the top tier. His financial growth follows a pattern—steady club improvements, higher-tier leagues, and visibility through national team exposure. With a current market value of €3 million, his earnings align well with his on-field role and international reputation.
Martin Erlić’s Detailed Earnings by Year
| Year | Club | Base Salary (EUR) | Total Cash (EUR) | Cumulative Earnings (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Spezia | €300,000 | €300,000 | €300,000 |
| 2020 | Spezia | €300,000 | €320,000 | €620,000 |
| 2021 | Sassuolo | €500,000 | €520,000 | €1,140,000 |
| 2022 | Sassuolo | €600,000 | €620,000 | €1,760,000 |
| 2023 | Sassuolo | €700,000 | €720,000 | €2,480,000 |
| 2024 | Bologna (partial) | €400,000 | €430,000 | €2,910,000 |
| 2025 | Bologna | €900,000 | €950,000 | €3,860,000 |
Note: Estimates based on industry sources, player ranking, and comparative Serie A salary benchmarks.
Career Earnings
He began his professional journey with modest wages at lower-tier clubs, but over time, his income scaled as he climbed Italy’s football hierarchy. During his early stint with Spezia between 2019 and 2021, he earned an estimated €300,000 per year, reflecting the typical pay scale for newly established players in Serie B and entry-level Serie A contracts. His financial boost came with a return to Sassuolo in 2021, where he signed a contract that raised his base salary to €500,000, later growing to €700,000 by 2023 as he secured a consistent starting role.
A pivotal move in 2024 saw him join Bologna FC, where he now earns between €800,000 and €1 million annually, marking his highest salary to date. This transfer not only confirmed his on-field maturity but also his increasing valuation in the market. His current contract, assumed to last until 2026, is projected to yield a gross total of €2.4–€3 million, excluding bonuses.
Over his career, he has amassed close to €4 million in cumulative earnings. His earnings reflect performance bonuses from participation in top-tier competitions like Serie A, UEFA Nations League, and the FIFA World Cup, where he was part of Croatia’s bronze-winning squad. Although he remained on the bench during the 2022 World Cup, the team’s third-place finish came with shared prize money, likely earning him a bonus share aligned with squad guidelines.
He has no publicly reported endorsement deals, which is not uncommon for defenders who keep a low media profile. If adjusted for inflation and performance bonuses, his career earnings could conservatively sit between €4.5 million and €5 million as of 2025. Key moments like his promotion with Spezia, Serie A breakout, and Coppa Italia title with Bologna have undoubtedly reinforced his bargaining power in recent contracts.
An In-Depth Analysis of Personal Awards and Their Influence on Contracts and Endorsements
Although he hasn’t won individual trophies such as Best Defender or Player of the Month, his contributions to club and country have not gone unnoticed. Being part of Croatia’s FIFA World Cup 2022 bronze-winning squad significantly elevated his national profile. Even without match appearances, inclusion in that squad demonstrated the coaching staff’s confidence and increased his marketability among clubs.
In 2025, his role in Bologna’s Coppa Italia triumph added another layer to his achievements. This historic win ended the club’s 51-year trophy drought, positioning him as a dependable asset in high-stakes matches. Such milestones often trigger performance-related clauses, adding financial bonuses and potential contract renewals.
Despite his defensive position typically drawing less commercial attention, club executives likely took his rising match impact into account. That’s evident in his elevated salary after the Bologna move. While he hasn’t been the face of sponsorship campaigns, performances in prestigious competitions like UEFA Nations League and Serie A keep him in the spotlight for future endorsements.
His growing trophy cabinet might not feature golden boots or MVP awards, but its influence on his financial terms is clear. The combination of international selection and silverware builds leverage, reinforcing his status as a valuable contract player and opening up possible commercial opportunities down the road.
Transfer Fees and Market Value
A player’s market value isn’t just about talent—it’s shaped by timing, consistency, and key career moments. His value has seen measurable shifts throughout his career, closely tied to club performances, international call-ups, and team honors. From modest beginnings in Serie C to a solid spot in Serie A and international duty, his market fluctuations reflect more than on-field statistics—they map out his growing reputation across European football.
Early Career and Initial Transfers
His professional journey began with Südtirol, on loan from Sassuolo. At that point, his market value was estimated below €500,000, typical for a young defender in Serie C. A single goal and 30 solid appearances laid the foundation for his next steps. Although the loan to Spezia in 2018–2019 yielded minimal play due to injury, it didn’t stall his trajectory. In 2019, he joined Spezia on a permanent deal—likely at a nominal transfer fee—and gained consistent minutes in Serie B.
The 2019–2021 seasons with Spezia marked the true beginning of his market climb. After playing a vital role in their promotion to Serie A, his value approached €1 million, driven by consistent defending and positional discipline. These years were foundational, proving that his early transfers set the stage for sustained valuation growth.
Peak Career
The real spike came between 2021 and 2023 during his time at Sassuolo. After returning to the club and becoming a starter in Serie A, his market value surged to around €6 million. His inclusion in Croatia’s 2022 FIFA World Cup squad—despite not playing—added to his international reputation. Being part of a bronze medal-winning team brought visibility and credibility.
At Sassuolo, he logged over 60 appearances in Italy’s top flight, developing a reputation for reliability. Consistent play and national team selection aligned with his peak valuation. A major club milestone arrived in 2024, when Bologna signed him, likely for a transfer fee estimated at €3–4 million, a figure shaped by his high yet slightly declining value due to age and market saturation in defensive roles.
While his value has slightly decreased to €3 million as of 2025, it remains competitive. His contribution to Bologna’s 2025 Coppa Italia victory reaffirmed his status as a dependable center-back. That success, combined with international appearances, stabilizes his current market value and ensures future negotiations—whether contract renewals or transfers—carry weight.
His journey shows how strong performances, consistent playing time, and strategic moves can transform an overlooked youth product into a defender with millions in career value.
The Impact of Peak Market Value on His Career
When his market value peaked at around €6 million in 2023, it wasn’t just a number—it was a career-defining moment. That valuation marked his arrival as a high-level Serie A defender and put him on the radar of clubs looking for reliable, consistent talent in central defense. His value had been building steadily, but this particular moment aligned with both national and club achievements, creating a perfect storm for recognition and opportunity.
This surge came on the heels of his full seasons with Sassuolo, where he logged consistent minutes, showcased tactical awareness, and held his own against top-tier strikers. More importantly, his selection to the Croatia national team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup added serious weight to his CV. Even though he didn’t log minutes during the tournament, just being part of the bronze medal squad increased his perceived value on the international stage.
That peak didn’t just elevate his resume—it unlocked a new level of financial negotiation. Clubs no longer viewed him as a rotation player or backup option. Instead, he became a viable starting center-back for any team aiming for European competition. This perception led to Bologna signing him in 2024, a move estimated between €3–€4 million. Although this was slightly lower than his peak valuation, the timing and the player’s age influenced the pricing.
Moreover, his elevated value translated into a significantly better salary structure, earning him €800K–€1M annually—his highest to date. That’s not a coincidence. His peak valuation signaled more than form; it represented maturity, leadership, and the ability to perform in high-pressure environments. The transfer also led to a longer-term contract, improving both his financial security and role stability.
Since then, his market value has slightly declined to €3 million in 2025, but his brand remains intact. Winning the 2025 Coppa Italia with Bologna helped preserve that reputation, ensuring he stays relevant in future transfer talks. His career path proves that a market peak, when supported by strategic performances and international exposure, can shift the entire arc of a player’s financial and professional journey.
A Comprehensive Overview of Endorsement Deals with Top Brands
Throughout his career, he has maintained a relatively low public profile, especially when it comes to brand endorsements. Unlike many of his peers in more attacking roles, he has not yet become a household name tied to global marketing campaigns. This isn’t uncommon for defenders, particularly those who play more reserved, tactical roles on the pitch.
While there are currently no confirmed major endorsements with global sportswear giants like Nike, Adidas, or Puma, his consistent rise in market value—peaking at €6 million in 2023—suggested strong potential for future brand alignment. His participation in the 2022 FIFA World Cup squad and Bologna’s Coppa Italia 2025 victory provided him with significant exposure. These moments, despite limited playing time during the World Cup, offered visibility on national and international stages that brands often look for.
Had his media presence or social influence matched his sporting achievements, deals with regional or niche brands could have materialized by now. That said, endorsement opportunities often follow major moments—and his 2025 domestic cup win was one such event. A possible collaboration with Croatian or Italian fitness, nutrition, or apparel brands remains within reach, especially if he continues to start regularly and maintain on-field performance.
As of now, his income structure remains primarily driven by his base salary and performance bonuses, with endorsements playing little to no role in his financial portfolio. But timing is everything. His track record, coupled with increased spotlight through club success and international tournaments, positions him well for brand representation in the near future.
Summary of Endorsement Influence
Market Value Alignment:
Peak value of €6M (2023) created brand potential.
Current value at €3M (2025) still strong for defensive market.
High-Exposure Moments:
2022 World Cup squad inclusion (Croatia, Bronze Medal).
Coppa Italia 2025 win with Bologna.
Brand Potential:
No signed deals yet, but visibility increasing.
Likely candidates: regional sportswear or local endorsements.
His career growth offers a foundation. Now it’s a matter of converting performance into commercial leverage—a step many defenders take after their peak seasons or international honors.
Important FAQs about Martin Erlić
What is Martin Erlić’s current salary in 2025?
He earns an estimated €800K to €1M annually at Bologna FC, following his transfer from Sassuolo.
How much is Martin Erlić’s net worth?
His estimated net worth ranges from €2.5M to €4M as of 2025, primarily from club salaries and bonuses.
When did Martin Erlić reach his peak market value?
His peak market value was around €6 million in 2023, during his full starting seasons with Sassuolo and after being selected for the Croatia World Cup squad.
What are Martin Erlić’s notable career highlights?
He played in Serie A, helped Spezia gain promotion, was part of Croatia’s 2022 World Cup bronze-winning team, and won the 2025 Coppa Italia with Bologna.
Has Martin Erlić signed any endorsement deals?
There are no confirmed endorsements with major brands, though recent success makes him a potential candidate for regional sponsorships.
What clubs has Martin Erlić played for professionally?
He played for Sassuolo, Südtirol (loan), Spezia, and Bologna, with loans and permanent moves shaping his steady rise.
What influenced Martin Erlić’s market value increase?
Consistent Serie A performances, international exposure, and winning team honors like Coppa Italia and World Cup bronze significantly impacted his valuation.
Is Martin Erlić a regular on the Croatia national team?
He has earned 10 international caps since 2022, reflecting his reliability as a squad player, especially in competitive fixtures.
What position does Martin Erlić play and how does it affect his earnings?
He is a centre-back, a position typically offering solid contracts in Europe, though it attracts fewer endorsements compared to attackers.
What are Martin Erlić’s contract details with Bologna?
Signed in August 2024, his contract likely runs through 2026, providing both salary security and long-term value stability.
Conclusion
Now you’ve got the full picture behind his financial growth and on-field success. If this breakdown sparked your curiosity, leave a comment, share your thoughts, or explore more insightful profiles here at hekimoglutrabzonfk.com.
