Find out the latest update of the top 10 most valuable players in football right now.
The world of football is constantly evolving, and with it, the value of players. In recent years, a new generation of young talent has emerged who are commanding record transfer fees.
First, let’s take a look at some of the factors that influence one’s status as the most valuable footballer:
- Age: Younger players are generally more valuable than older players, as they have more years of potential productivity ahead of them.
- Performance: Players who perform well at the highest level are more valuable than players who do not. This is measured by factors such as goals scored, assists, and trophies won.
- Position: Some positions are more valuable than others. For example, strikers are typically more valuable than defenders.
- International experience: Players who have played for their national team are more valuable than players who have not. This is because international experience is seen as a sign of quality and potential.
- Contract status: Players who have a long contract are more valuable than players who are out of contract or who have a short contract. This is because clubs are more likely to be willing to pay a high price for a player who they know they will be able to keep for a long time.
- Marketability: Players that can be marketed well and used to attract attention are also more valuable for clubs to generate revenue.
Now, here is a look at the top 10 most valuable players in the world, based on the latest data from the CIES Football Observatory.
Top 10 most valuable players in the world 2024
10. Martin Odegaard – €150.6 million
After being named the captain of Arsenal, Martin Odegaard has found his feet in the Premier League and is one of the top midfielders in the division. He is now ranked 10th in the list of the most valuable footballers.
8. Jamal Musiala – €152.4 million
Jamal Musiala is the future of Bayern Munich, and is deemed untouchable in terms of transfers. The youngster scored and assisted 16 times in 47 games across all competitions last season, and has had a slow start this year in terms of stats. But he remains an influential presence in the final third.
8. Julian Alvarez – €164.7 million
Not many people can say that they completed football at the age of 23, and won almost every trophy at club and country level in the same year. Julian Alvarez can, and he has shined ever since he arrived at Manchester City from River Plate. The Argentine helped City win the treble, and then complete the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup arc.
7. Gavi – €175.4 million
Barcelona’s Gavi has now been registered as their new number 6, and has renewed his contract until 2026. As a result, his market value has also risen dramatically following his Golden Boy award this past season.
6. Phil Foden – €195.8 million
Foden has all the tools to be a top player for Manchester City, and has shown his brilliance time and time again. The youngster is now getting regular opportunities on the right wing to show his ability, and is shining time and time again, adding to his value.
5. Bukayo Saka – $209m
Having renewed his contract with Arsenal last season, Saka has fallen down from third to fifth in terms of the most valuable players in the world. The England international is now valued at €223 million, having led the Gunners’ title challenge last season and finishing with 14 goals and 11 assists in the league.
5. Rodrygo – €247.9 million
The former Santos player has been quite effective this season, building on his reputation as a super sub last year. He has started more regularly for Real Madrid this season, and has been very clinical in front of goal, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists across all competitions by the midway point this season.
3. Vinicius Jr – €250.3 million
The Brazilian has finally become the star that he was once envisioned to be by Florentino Perez. His pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing in front of goal has made him one of the best players to watch right now. This season, he has scored six goals and provided four assists across all competitions..
2. Erling Haaland – €251.2 million
Breaking the Premier League scoring record in his very first season, Erling Haaland has taken the Premier League by storm. The Norwegian guided Manchester City to the treble in his first season at the club, and has been eclipsed this year by a former Borussia Dortmund teammate.
1. Jude Bellingham – €265.5 million
Bellingham joined Real Madrid for a massive fee, valued at €131 million including add-ons, and has delivered on the price tag thus far. He is the most expensive sale that Dortmund have ever made, and the most expensive player that Madrid have ever signed. In spite of being a midfielder, Bellingham has scored 17 goals and provided five assists in 23 games – a stellar return for the 20-year-old.
