Liam Duckstein
England boasts the most valuable collection of footballers
With an estimated 3.5 billion fans worldwide, football is the most global sport. The 2022 World Cup drew over 5 billion viewers, with Lionel Messi and Argentina stealing the show.
While Europe’s top five leagues dominate the player market, new markets like the United States and China are growing. Using Transfermarkt’s market values, we’ve identified the nations with the most valuable player collections.
Top Nations by Player Market Value
England tops the list with 1,675 players valued at €5.15 billion. Despite a 60-year drought in major tournaments, England boasts four players worth €100m or more, led by Jude Bellingham at €180m.
Brazil ranks second with 2,740 players worth €4.99b. Vinicius Junior (€150m) and Raphinha (€90m) are their top talents.
Spain holds third place with 4,022 players valued at €4.76b. Lamine Yamal (€200m) is the most valuable player, while France follows with Kylian Mbappé (€180m) leading their squad.
Reigning champions Argentina complete the top five, with Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez as their only €100m players. The remaining top ten nations are European, with Portugal, Netherlands, and Belgium each having fewer than 1,000 players.
The United States ranks 15th, and Morocco is the top African nation at 17th.