World Cup Boost: Haaland and Yamal Become Football’s Most Valuable Players

Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal have emerged as the world’s most valuable footballers after Transfermarkt increased their market values to a record €220 million following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Transfermarkt reviewed the performances of 99 players who stood out during the tournament, won by Spain after defeating Argentina in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. In line with its post-tournament review, the platform made only upward adjustments to the players’ market values.

Haaland was one of the standout performers of the tournament, scoring seven goals and providing one assist in five matches as Norway reached the quarter-finals before losing 2-1 to England.

The 25-year-old Manchester City striker has now scored 62 goals in 52 international appearances for Norway.

His rise to €220 million reflects both his performances at the World Cup and his growing global profile, with the striker now boasting more than 28 million social media followers.

Barcelona forward Yamal also reached the €220 million mark, despite scoring just once and providing one assist in eight matches. Transfermarkt said the 19-year-old’s overall achievements, including winning the World Cup and European Championship at such a young age, justified the increase.

‘He has confirmed his status as the world’s biggest talent,’ said Transfermarkt market value coordinator Tobias Kröger. ‘He has already had more success and experience than Lionel Messi at the same age.’

Kylian Mbappé remains third on the list after his market value rose by €20 million to €200 million. The France captain scored 10 goals and provided two assists at the tournament, winning the Golden Boot and becoming the leading goalscorer in World Cup history.

Four players also joined the €100 million club. World Cup winner Pau Cubarsí saw his value rise by €20 million to €100 million, putting him alongside Arsenal’s William Saliba as the world’s most valuable centre-backs. Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández rose by €10 million to €100 million.

England also produced two major market-value winners. Elliot Anderson’s value increased by €35 million to €110 million, while Morgan Rogers rose by €20 million to the same figure.

Both increases were influenced by their major summer transfers, with Anderson moving from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City for €135 million and Rogers joining Chelsea from Aston Villa for €137 million.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha recorded the biggest percentage increase. The 40-year-old’s market value rose from €50,000 to €500,000 after his impressive World Cup performances and growing global profile.

‘It is a total exception to receive a market value update at 40,’ Kröger said. ‘But that’s because of his new status. Vozinha delivered an outstanding performance against a Spain side that would later win the World Cup, increasing his follower count to 29 million.’

Other major percentage increases included Canadian defender Luc De Fougerolles, whose value rose by 400% to €5 million, United States wing-back Alex Freeman, who climbed 185.7% to €10 million, and Mexico’s Gilberto Mora, whose value increased by 150% to €25 million.

Australian centre-back Lucas Herrington also received a significant upgrade, with his value rising from €4.5 million to €8 million after his performances at the tournament.

Transfermarkt said the post-World Cup update focused on players who enhanced their reputations through strong performances or established themselves on the international stage. Market values were also adjusted to reflect confirmed transfers and significant developments in the transfer market.