Raphinha’s market value has been downgraded.
This week, following the Premier League’s market value update, Spain’s LaLiga is the second major league to receive an update from Transfermarkt. A total of 493 players in LaLiga received new market valuations. Notably, Real Madrid’s superstar Kylian Mbappé has joined Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland as the most valuable player in both LaLiga and worldwide. The French striker’s remarkable season has seen his market value rise by €20 million, bringing him back to a €200 million valuation for the first time since 2019.
“Despite the off-field chaos at Real Madrid, the Frenchman has solidified his position among the world’s elite players,” stated Tobias Blaseio, Market Value Coordinator for Transfermarkt Spain. “His form has improved month by month, and he now needs just four more goals to break Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the most goals in a calendar year.” With an impressive tally of 26 goals in 24 matches across all competitions, there is no doubt Mbappé has established himself as Real Madrid’s top superstar, surpassing Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
However, Jude Bellingham’s market value has seen a decline in this update. The English midfielder’s value fell by €20 million, from €180 million to €160 million. “After a challenging second half of last season, Bellingham’s struggles have continued this term,” Blaseio noted. “The expectations were high following his arrival at Real Madrid, and his prolonged poor form has impacted his market valuation. Despite being only 22, he has experienced a significant drop in status within his club and national teams. Nonetheless, clubs would likely still pay hefty sums to acquire him, keeping his market value relatively high.”
Market Values at Real Madrid: Alexander-Arnold Downgraded; Güler Ups
Bellingham isn’t the only English player to see a reduction in market value at Real Madrid. New signing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s value fell by €5 million, from €75 million to €70 million. “His start in Madrid has been challenging, compounded by injuries,” Blaseio commented. “His valuation reflects that he is still adjusting to the squad, and while his reputation hasn’t diminished significantly, he must prove his capacity to compete at Real Madrid in the season’s second half.”
Additionally, Brazilian winger Rodrygo remains under scrutiny. Blaseio remarked, “It’s been a forgettable year for Rodrygo. He hasn’t contributed a single goal or assist in the league since January. A transfer last summer seemed unlikely due to financial factors, leading to questions about his future at the club. If his form doesn’t improve, Real Madrid may need to reconsider their expectations for his transfer.” His market value has plummeted by half since 2024.
In terms of emerging talents, Brazilian striker Endrick’s market value saw a decline, dropping by €10 million to €25 million due to limited playing time under head coach Xabi Alonso. “The goal now is to secure a loan for him, but his value reflects a significant downturn,” Blaseio stated. Meanwhile, Turkish player Arda Güler has thrived, showcasing his skills across various positions. Güler’s market value has surged by €30 million to €90 million, putting a €100 million valuation within reach.
Market Values at Barcelona: Raphinha & Araujo Downgraded; Fermín López Rising
In Barcelona, Lamine Yamal maintains his status as the most valuable player, but other players have experienced shifts. Raphinha’s market value fell by €10 million, from €90 million to €80 million. “His age and injury history largely contribute to this decline,” Blaseio explained. “At 29, Raphinha, when at peak performance, can be a game-changer, but he lacks the international recognition he deserves. If he continues to excel, he should stabilize his value.”
Ronald Araujo has also faced a drop in market value. “Since summer 2024, Araujo’s standing at Barcelona has declined. An injury disrupted his form, and he has struggled this season. Expectations were high for him, but he has not fulfilled them, leaving uncertainties about his future at the club,” Blaseio pointed out.
Conversely, youthful midfielder Fermín López has made impressive strides. “He is an exciting prospect,” Blaseio remarked. “His development parallels that of Arda Güler. While López is two years older, he is showing great potential as a key player for Hansi Flick’s squad. With further physical growth and consistency, he could see significant increases in his market value.”
Downgrades for Nico Williams and Atlético Madrid Players
Beyond the two top clubs, other celebrated players have also seen adjustments to their market values. At Athletic Club, Nico Williams’ valuation decreased from €70 million to €60 million. “Once a sought-after prospect, his average performance and Athletic’s struggles in the Champions League have altered perceptions,” Blaseio noted. “His new contract has removed him from contention with elite clubs, contributing to this market value drop.”
At Atlético Madrid, players such as Conor Gallagher and Johnny Cardoso have experienced downgrades. Gallagher’s market value fell by €5 million, from €40 million to €35 million. “As a part-time player at Atlético, he has faced criticism, particularly after a poor showing against Arsenal. While the club is patient, significant offers might trigger reconsideration of his status,” Blaseio stated.
American player Johnny Cardoso has encountered a tough start at Atlético due to injuries. “His misfortunes have necessitated a downgrade,” Blaseio explained. “Despite this, Cardoso has the talent to emerge as an impactful player under Diego Simeone. The hope remains that he can gain momentum ahead of the World Cup. The €3 million decline from €25 million to €22 million could be just the beginning if he doesn’t make strides.”
Understanding Transfermarkt Market Values
Transfermarkt’s market values are calculated by considering various pricing models, with a substantial influence from the Transfermarkt community, who actively discuss and evaluate player values. These values should not be directly equated with transfer fees, as the aim is to represent a player’s expected value within a free market context. Multiple factors come into play regarding individual transfer situations and contextual conditions. For more detailed insights into how market values are defined, click here.
