Santiago Arias has established himself as one of Colombia’s most decorated defenders, boasting a career that spans top European leagues and South American giants.
By 2026, the experienced right-back has navigated a journey through clubs like Atlético Madrid, PSV Eindhoven, and recently Esporte Clube Bahia.
In this article, you will know Santiago Arias’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Santiago Arias’s Biography
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Santiago Arias Naranjo |
| Date of Birth | January 13, 1992 |
| Age | 34 |
| Nationality | Colombia |
| Height | 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in) |
| Weight | 72 kg (159 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2009 |
| Net Worth | $5 Million – $8 Million (Estimate) |
| Career Earnings | ~$15 Million+ (Gross) |
| Wife | Karin Jiménez |
| Children | Thiago, Lucca, Milan |
| Instagram Profile | @santiagoarias13 |
Early Career
Santiago Arias began his professional journey in his native Colombia with La Equidad. Making his debut in 2009, he quickly impressed scouts with his maturity and athleticism.
His performances earned him a move to Europe in 2011, signing with Portuguese club Sporting CP. Although his time in Portugal was limited largely to the B-team, it served as a crucial stepping stone for his development in European football.
His true breakout came after moving to PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie in 2013. In the Netherlands, Arias flourished, becoming arguably the best right-back in the league.
Over five seasons, he made over 130 appearances, won three Eredivisie titles, and was named the Eredivisie Player of the Year for the 2017–18 season.
This period defined his rise to stardom and cemented his spot in the Colombian national team.
Professional Career
Arias earned a high-profile transfer to Atlético Madrid in La Liga. Under Diego Simeone, he competed at the highest level, including the Champions League, and added a UEFA Super Cup to his trophy cabinet.
However, injuries and intense competition led to loan spells at Bayer Leverkusen in Germany and Granada in Spain, where he worked to regain his top form.
After overcoming significant injury challenges, Arias moved to Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2023, signing with FC Cincinnati. He played a vital role in their Supporters’ Shield-winning campaign, proving he still had plenty to offer.
In 2024, he returned to South America to join Brazilian Serie A club Esporte Clube Bahia. He spent two seasons as a key starter for Bahia before his contract concluded at the end of 2025, making him a highly experienced free agent entering 2026.
Wife
Santiago Arias is a dedicated family man, married to the stunning Colombian model and beauty queen Karin Jiménez. The couple has been together for many years, becoming one of the most beloved pairs in Colombian sports.
Karin is not only a supportive partner but also a successful influencer and blogger who often shares glimpses of their life on social media.
Together, they have three sons: Thiago, Lucca, and Milan. Their third child, Milan, was born in June 2022, completing their trio of boys.
The family is frequently seen supporting Santiago at his matches, traveling together between the various countries where his career has taken them, from Spain to the USA and Brazil.
Santiago Arias’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Santiago Arias has an estimated net worth between $5 Million and $8 Million. This wealth is the result of over a decade playing in top-tier leagues, where he commanded significant salaries, particularly during his time at Atlético Madrid and Bahia.
Contract
Santiago Arias’s most recent contract was with Esporte Clube Bahia, which ran through December 2025.
Reports indicate that he opted for this deal over staying in MLS because it offered a guaranteed two-year term with a higher immediate payout. As of January 2026, he is a free agent, free to negotiate a new deal with any club.
Salary
During his peak at Atlético Madrid, Arias earned an estimated annual salary in the range of €2 million to €4 million.
At Bahia, his compensation was lucrative for South American standards, reportedly exceeding the $1 million base salary he would have earned had he remained at FC Cincinnati.
Career Earnings
| Period | Club | Estimated Earnings (Gross) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | Bahia | ~$3.5 Million (Total) |
| 2023 | FC Cincinnati | ~$436,000 – $700,000 |
| 2018-2022 | Atlético Madrid/Loans | ~$8 Million – $10 Million |
| 2013-2018 | PSV Eindhoven | ~$3 Million – $4 Million |
Endorsements
Throughout his career, Santiago Arias has maintained sponsorship deals with major sportswear brands, most notably Adidas.
He has frequently worn Adidas boots (such as the X and Predator silos) and appeared in promotional campaigns for the brand in Colombia.
His image as a family man and national team star also attracts partnerships with lifestyle and nutrition brands in South America.
Career Stats
| Competition/Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bahia (2024-25) | 40+ | 1+ | 2+ |
| FC Cincinnati | 32 | 3 | 2 |
| Atlético Madrid | 51 | 1 | 3 |
| PSV Eindhoven | 172 | 10 | 21 |
| Colombia (National Team) | 55+ | 0 | 6+ |
FAQs
1. Who is Santiago Arias’s wife?
Santiago Arias is married to Karin Jiménez, a Colombian model and beauty queen. They have been married for several years and have three children together.
2. Which team does Santiago Arias play?
Santiago Arias is a free agent. He most recently played for Esporte Clube Bahia in Brazil, but his contract expired at the end of 2025.
3. How many children does Santiago Arias have?
Santiago Arias has three sons. Their names are Thiago, Lucca, and Milan. His youngest son, Milan, was born in June 2022.
4. Did Santiago Arias play in the MLS?
Yes, Santiago Arias played in Major League Soccer (MLS) for FC Cincinnati during the 2023 season. He helped the team win the Supporters’ Shield before moving to Brazil.
5. Is there another player named Santiago Arias?
Yes, there is a Uruguayan midfielder named Santiago Arias (born 1995) who plays for Club Cienciano in Peru. However, the famous Colombian defender is the one who played for Atlético Madrid and the Colombian national team.
