England and Chelsea star Lauren James has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in women's football, but how does her salary compare to her Lionesses teammates?
The Rising Star's Earnings
At just 22 years old, Lauren James reportedly earns around £50,000 per year with Chelsea - a figure that pales in comparison to some of her more established international colleagues. While this makes her one of the higher earners in the Women's Super League, it's a fraction of what male counterparts at Stamford Bridge take home.
How Other Lionesses Compare
The wage disparity becomes even more apparent when comparing James' salary to England's top earners:
- Mary Earps (Manchester United): £200,000+
- Lucy Bronze (Barcelona): £250,000+
- Keira Walsh (Barcelona): £300,000+
These figures highlight the growing - yet still significant - pay gap in women's football, even among international teammates.
The Commercial Value Factor
Experts suggest James' market value could skyrocket with continued strong performances. "Her technical ability and commercial appeal make her a future face of the women's game," said sports marketing analyst Emma Hayes. "Sponsors are taking notice."
With the WSL's popularity surging and more broadcast deals being signed, there's hope that salaries like James' will continue to rise, closing the gap with both her England teammates and male footballers.
