Who will be named in the most expensive squad for the 2026 World Cup?

From Europe's top defenders to the world's best attacking stars, the most expensive 4-4-2 team for the 2026 World Cup (according to Transfermarkt) is a microcosm of the generation of players currently dominating top-level football.

The lineup of the most expensive stars at the 2026 World Cup according to Transfermarkt - Photo: Transfermarkt

According to Transfermarkt, the most expensive squad for the 2026 World Cup, built on a 4-4-2 formation, is valued at a total of €1.41 billion. Notably, the majority of the players included are under 27 years old and play key roles at top European clubs.

In goal, Diogo Costa is the first-choice option with a valuation of 40 million euros. The Porto and Portugal goalkeeper continues to maintain consistent form in the 2025-2026 season thanks to his excellent reflexes, modern footwork, and ability to initiate attacks from the back.

The defensive quartet of Nuno Mendes, William Pacho, William Saliba, and Achraf Hakimi have a combined value of 330 million euros.

Notably, three of these four defenders were key players in helping PSG dominate European football last season.

On the left flank, Nuno Mendes is considered one of the most complete full-backs in the world today. The Portuguese international stands out for his speed, tireless attacking and defensive capabilities, and energetic runs down the left wing.

Meanwhile, William Pacho continues to prove his worth after a successful season with PSG. The Ecuadorian center-back impressed with his tackling strength, defensive ferocity, and increasingly refined ball-playing ability.

Pacho's defensive partner is William Saliba, currently the world's most expensive center-back, valued at €90 million. The Arsenal and France star possesses excellent situational awareness, composure in ball handling, and is always a reliable anchor in big matches.

On the right flank, Achraf Hakimi continues to maintain his position as one of the world's top right-backs. The Moroccan international just had an impressive 2025-2026 season with PSG, making outstanding contributions in both attack and defense.

The midfield is a combination of technique and strength with Pedri and Jude Bellingham. These two midfielders are valued at €150 million and €140 million respectively. Both are also key players in their national team's style of play.

After a period plagued by injuries, Pedri has rediscovered his top form for Barca. The Spanish midfielder excels at controlling the tempo, escaping pressure, and dominating the game with his creative passes.

On the opposite side, Jude Bellingham continues to be the midfield leader for Real Madrid and England. Despite the demanding schedule of the 2025-2026 season, the 22-year-old midfielder maintains a significant influence thanks to his all-around play, abundant energy, and ability to score from midfield.

Haaland, Mbappe, and Yamal are the most expensive superstars in Transfermarkt's €1.41 billion squad - Photo: Transfermarkt

The attacking line is where the most expensive names converge, with a combined value of up to 750 million euros. Four stars – Vinicius Junior, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland – are all among the most sought-after players in the world today.

Vinicius Junior continues to be a dangerous attacking threat on Real Madrid's left flank. His explosive speed, dribbling ability, and ability to create decisive moments help the Brazilian international maintain his €150 million valuation.

On the right wing, Lamine Yamal has become a remarkable phenomenon in world football. At just 18 years old, the Spanish player was valued at €200 million by Transfermarkt thanks to his brilliant form, exceptional footballing intelligence, and ability to make an impact in big matches.

In the attacking line, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are both valued at 200 million euros. While Mbappe stands out for his speed, technique, and ability to decide high-stakes matches for Real Madrid, Haaland remains the most fearsome "goal-scoring machine" in Europe with consistent goalscoring performance for Manchester City and the Norwegian national team.

Overall, this €1.41 billion 4-4-2 squad is a combination of established stars and rising young talents. If they maintain their high level of performance at the 2026 World Cup, they could very well create one of the most exciting tournaments in world football history.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/doi-hinh-dat-gia-nhat-world-cup-2026-goi-ten-ai-20260603134024454.htm