Will World Cup Boost Player Prices? Market Value Risks Explained
The high-stakes drama of the 2026 World Cup doesn’t always translate into a financial windfall for players, according to Artur Fernandes, president of the National Association of Football Agents (ANAF). While the tournament provides a global stage for talent, Fernandes warns that “market inflation” is far from a guarantee.
The Double-Edged Sword of the World Cup
“These competitions can inflate values, but they can also deflate them,” Fernandes told Lusa. “While one or two players might see their stock soar, consider the athletes from the Netherlands or Germany. After their unexpected early exits, their transfer values certainly didn’t increase.”
Despite the risk of underperformance, Fernandes anticipates that a handful of breakout stars will drive “unexpected and unconventional” moves this summer. However, those expecting a world-record fee to shatter Neymar’s €222 million mark from 2017 may be disappointed. While the market grows annually, Fernandes does not foresee a new record-breaking figure in the immediate future.
Technology Bridging the Distance
Navigating major transfers while players are competing across time zones in North America presents logistical hurdles, but Fernandes notes that modern connectivity has simplified the process. Nevertheless, the tournament can cause paralysis for club executives.
“The fact that players are still competing may lead decision-makers to hesitate,” Fernandes explained. “A director might fear for their job and tell the club president to ‘watch one more match’ to confirm an athlete’s worth. This often delays final decisions.”
Major Portuguese Moves Already in Motion
The market is already shifting for high-profile Portuguese internationals. Earlier this window, midfielder Elliot Anderson set a new benchmark, moving from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City for €135 million—a record for an English player. Anderson completed his medical exams in the United States while training with the England national team.
Within the Portuguese camp, two major stars have already secured their futures. Midfielder Bernardo Silva has joined Real Madrid to reunite with José Mourinho, while striker Gonçalo Ramos—fresh off a decisive goal against Croatia—has traded Paris Saint-Germain for AC Milan. Ramos will play under fellow countryman Ruben Amorim in Italy.
Players to Watch
Fernandes highlighted several other Portuguese talents who could be on the move soon:
- Diogo Costa (FC Porto): Regarded as one of the top three goalkeepers in the world.
- Tomás Araújo (Benfica): A center-back poised for a step up to a major European league.
- Rafael Leão (AC Milan) & Francisco Conceição (Juventus): Both face “great uncertainty” at their current clubs and could be subject to predatory bids.
The Cape Verde “Outsider” Effect
Reflecting on the tournament’s surprises, Fernandes praised debutants Cape Verde for their spirited run to the round of 32, which ended in a narrow extra-time defeat to Argentina. However, he cautioned that collective success doesn’t always lead to individual big-money transfers.
“Those with potential for the major leagues were likely scouted years ago,” Fernandes said. “Their performance was excellent as a team, but individual market value is a different calculation. Their unity serves as an example for others, even if it doesn’t result in an ‘incredible’ transfer fee.”
Image: Pexels – Vidal Balielo Jr.
