Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland Become Football's Most Valuable Players After World Cup

2026-07-24

Following Spain's second FIFA World Cup triumph, Transfermarkt has released its latest market value update, rewarding standout performers from the tournament while reflecting recent transfer activity. The update only includes value increases, with 99 players receiving boosts.

The biggest headline sees Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland become the world's joint most valuable footballers. Both gained €20 million to reach a record €220 million valuation. At just 17, Yamal reached the milestone after leading Spain to the world title, while Haaland's seven-goal World Cup campaign earned him the same increase.

Kylian Mbappe climbed back to €200 million after winning the tournament's Golden Boot, placing third overall.

Michael Olise, the World Cup's leading assist provider, rose to €170 million, while Jude Bellingham enjoyed the biggest increase among the elite players, gaining €30 million to reach €160 million.

Pedri ranks sixth at €150 million, followed by João Neves, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Vitinha, and Vinícius Júnior, who all stand at €140 million.

At €120 million, Désiré Doué, Julián Álvarez, and Declan Rice share the next tier, with Álvarez receiving a €20 million boost after the World Cup.

New high-profile transfers also pushed Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson to €110 million, alongside Bukayo Saka.

Among defenders, Pau Cubarsí reached €100 million after a €20 million increase, making the Spain international the joint most valuable defender in world football.