Lamine Yamal, 17, becomes world's most valuable footballer

Lamine Yamal (number 19) surrounded by three Germany players in a Euro 2024 quarterfinals match with Spain. Photo by AP

On June 9, football data site Transfermarkt revised the market values of 480 La Liga players ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. Yamal's value surged by €20 million (US$23 million), reaching €200 million, the highest for any player globally.

With this update, Yamal becomes the first player under 18 to top the global valuation rankings and the youngest ever to be valued at €200 million. Mbappe reached that figure at age 20, while Erling Haaland did so at 24.

Yamal's rocketing rise reflects a breakout year in which he scored 24 goals and helped Spain win the Euro 2024 title. He also played a pivotal role in Barcelona's domestic treble, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. His only setbacks were Barcelona's Champions League semifinal loss to Inter Milan and Spain's defeat to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final.

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. saw his value drop from €200 million to €170 million to fall from the top four.

Other Real Madrid stars also experienced dips in value after a season without a major title. Rodrygo's value dropped from €100 million to €90 million, Aurelien Tchouameni fell to €75 million from €80 million) and Eduardo Camavinga slipped to €60 million from €70 million.

Mbappe defied the trend, seeing his value rise from €170 million to €180 million. The French striker enjoyed a stellar debut season at Real Madrid, winning his first European Golden Boot with 31 goals in La Liga.

Mbappe now shares second place on the valuation list with Jude Bellingham, whose value remains unchanged. Outside La Liga, Erling Haaland is the only other player valued at €180 million.

Barcelona, in contrast to their rivals, saw several players increase in value. Midfielder Pedri's market value rose by €20 million to €140 million, Raphinha went up by €10 million to €90 million and teenage sensation Pau Cubarsí jumped €10 million to €80 million.

Transfermarkt is a Germany-based platform specializing in football statistics and player valuations. It determines market value using a range of factors, including age, performance, potential and contract status. It is important to note that these valuations are estimates and do not necessarily reflect actual transfer fees.