As Europe’s top clubs gear up for the FIFA Club World Cup, Transfermarkt has released a major update on the market values of 480 LaLiga players. The headline? Barcelona’s 17-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal has become the world’s most valuable player, now priced at an eye-watering €200 million.
This update signals a clear shift in global football’s balance of star power and potential. Here's a breakdown of the most notable changes from Spain’s top flight:
Lamine Yamal: The €200M Wonderkid Who Rewrote History
📈 Market Value: €200M (+€20M)
At just 17, Lamine Yamal has done the unimaginable. The Barcelona right winger not only led his club to the LaLiga title and Spanish Cup victory, but also produced 18 goals and 25 assists across all competitions.
According to Transfermarkt's Tobias Blaseio:
“Only 17, Yamal continues to write football history… He doesn’t need to be compared to the best. He is already one of them.”
With a contract now running until 2031, Yamal has solidified his place as the cornerstone of Barcelona's future. His unique style, composure, and maturity have dazzled fans and pundits alike.
Vinicius Junior: From MVP to Runner-Up
📉 Market Value: €170M (↓ €30M)
Once the benchmark at €200M, Vinicius Junior has suffered a 15% drop in value after failing to maintain last season’s form. Despite a promising start, his influence waned alongside new arrival Kylian Mbappé, with whom he struggled to form a seamless partnership.
Blaseio was blunt:
“For a player of his class, he was just not good enough.”
As Real Madrid transitions under incoming manager Xabi Alonso, the pressure will be on Vini Jr. to rediscover consistency.
Rodrygo Also Loses Ground
📉 Market Value: €90M (↓ €10M)
Rodrygo's dip in performance mirrored that of his compatriot. His Champions League flashes weren’t enough to compensate for his LaLiga struggles, resulting in a 10% market value drop.
“Rodrygo hasn’t met expectations. The market still respects his profile, but €100M? That’s doubtful,” Blaseio noted.
Mbappé Rebounds After Initial Drop
📈 Market Value: €180M (+€10M)
After a spring downgrade to €170M, Kylian Mbappé has regained momentum thanks to a strong statistical finish. Although his debut season at Real Madrid lacked silverware, his personal numbers justify a partial recovery.
With Xabi Alonso expected to demand more discipline and effort, Mbappé’s long-term success at Madrid remains a story to watch.
Real Madrid: More Downgrades for Young Stars
Not all is rosy in Madrid. Two key French midfielders also suffered declines:
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Aurélien Tchouaméni: €75M (↓ €5M)
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Eduardo Camavinga: €60M (↓ €10M)
These dips reflect inconsistency and injury setbacks during a season where Real underperformed domestically.
Barcelona’s Supporting Cast Also Rises
While Yamal stole the show, several Barcelona teammates also saw their values rise:
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Pedri: €140M (↑ €20M) – Finally injury-free and consistent, becoming Flick’s midfield metronome.
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Raphinha: €90M (↑ €10M) – Improved output and increased tactical discipline.
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Pau Cubarsí: €80M (↑ €10M) – One of the most exciting young defenders in Europe.
Rising Stars: Baena, Rodríguez & Jauregizar
Álex Baena (Villarreal → Atlético Madrid soon?)
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Market Value: €55M (↑ €5M)
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Position: Attacking Midfielder
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With 10% growth and linked with a €55M move to Atlético, Baena is quickly becoming a midfield star for club and country.
Jesús Rodríguez (Real Betis)
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Market Value: €30M (↑ €20M)
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Age: 19
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Position: Winger
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A breakout season with 5 goals and 4 assists across 44 games.
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Compared to Betis legend Joaquín, his stock is rising fast under Pellegrini’s mentorship.
Mikel Jauregizar (Athletic Bilbao)
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Market Value: €30M (↑ €10M)
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Age: 21
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Position: Central Midfielder
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Nicknamed the “future engine of Athletic”, Jauregizar is set to feature heavily in Bilbao’s Champions League campaign next season.
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His new contract runs until 2031 with no exit clause.
Final Thoughts:
The biggest story isn’t just the reshuffling of market values—it’s the changing of the guard. While Vinicius, Rodrygo, and others battle inconsistency, Lamine Yamal emerges as the new global face of football.
With stars rising across Barcelona, Bilbao, and Betis, LaLiga’s next generation is here—and it’s thrilling.
Expect fireworks this summer as these changes influence transfer strategies, contract renewals, and the future of the Spanish league.
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