10 most expensive national teams at 2026 World Cup

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National teams values heading into the World Cup underline the growing financial power of international football, with elite talent spread across Europe’s biggest leagues and beyond.

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From emerging superpowers to established giants, here are the 10 most valuable national teams squads at the tournament.

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10. Belgium — $631.4 million

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Jérémy Doku leads a Belgium squad transitioning away from its famed golden generation, with several iconic names now retired or past their peak.

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Former talisman Eden Hazard has stepped away from international football, while veteran leaders Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku remain influential but carry reduced market value due to age.

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Doku, valued at around $75.6 million, is now Belgium’s standout asset, supported by key Premier League-based midfielders such as Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans.

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9. Norway — $698.97 million

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Norway’s valuation is driven by the world’s most expensive player, Erling Haaland, whose market value alone exceeds $230 million.

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The Manchester City striker is the tournament’s standout financial figure, but Norway’s strength goes beyond one man.

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Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard and Crystal Palace forward Jørgen Strand Larsen contribute significantly, giving the squad a competitive edge capable of causing upsets.

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8. Argentina — $950.76 million

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Even though Lionel Messi remains the biggest global name, his market value has dropped to around $17.45 million, reflecting his stage in career rather than influence.

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The financial backbone of Argentina now lies with younger stars like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández, both valued at over $100 million and expected to be central to the team’s future.

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7. Netherlands — $973.68 million

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The Netherlands boast one of the most balanced and expensive squads in Europe, featuring top talent across every department.

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Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch leads the valuation chart, closely followed by Arsenal defender Jurriën Timber.

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Attacking depth comes from Cody Gakpo and Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven, while Bayern Munich-linked stars continue to raise the squad’s overall worth.

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6. Brazil — $1.06 billion

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Brazil cross the $1 billion mark, powered by elite attacking talent and Premier League influence.

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Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha headline the squad’s attacking value, while key players such as Gabriel, Bruno Guimarães, and Matheus Cunha add depth across all areas.

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Injuries and absences have slightly reduced Brazil’s ceiling, but the squad remains one of the most feared in world football.

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5. Germany — $1.16 billion

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Germany’s squad is built around a powerful young core led by Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, both valued at over $100 million.

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Midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović adds further elite value, while experienced names like Kai Havertz and Nico Schlotterbeck ensure balance between youth and experience.

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Despite inconsistency in recent tournaments, Germany remain serious contenders on paper.

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4. Portugal — $1.19 billion

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Portugal’s squad highlights a generational shift, with younger stars now carrying most of the financial weight.

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Veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo remains the symbolic leader, but his market value has dropped significantly compared to his peak years.

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Paris Saint-Germain trio Vitinha, João Neves, and Nuno Mendes dominate Portugal’s valuation rankings, forming a technically gifted core.

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3. Spain — $1.47 billion

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Spain’s rise is driven by a new wave of elite young talent.

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Lamine Yamal leads the squad’s valuation, supported by Barcelona teammates Pedri and Pau Cubarsí.

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With additional depth from players like Dani Olmo and Martín Zubimendi, Spain’s squad is widely considered one of the most exciting at the tournament.

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2. England — $1.52 billion

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England’s squad is packed with high-value Premier League and European stars.

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Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka lead a deep roster that reflects the country’s strong domestic development system.

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With several players valued above $100 million, England enter the tournament as one of the most expensive and balanced squads.

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1. France — $1.78 billion

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France top the rankings comfortably, boasting the most valuable squad in world football.

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Kylian Mbappé headlines a group of superstar talents, joined by Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, William Saliba, and Rayan Cherki.

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With multiple players valued above $100 million, France combine depth, youth, and elite-level experience, reinforcing their status as pre-tournament favourites.

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