2026 World Cup Rising Stars: Player Values Shift as Ayyoub Bouaddi Shines

Tracking Rising Talent at the 2026 World Cup

As the group stages of the 2026 World Cup unfold across North America, GOAL, in partnership with eToro, follows the market value changes of 10 of football’s most exciting young stars. Their worth fluctuates with every performance—some rising, some slipping.

Deniz Undav | VfB Stuttgart & Germany | £35m

Three years ago, Deniz Undav was struggling for minutes at Brighton, overshadowed by players like Evan Ferguson and Danny Welbeck. A loan to VfB Stuttgart changed everything. By 2024, he made his move permanent and became a key figure, finishing the 2025-26 Bundesliga season as Germany's second top scorer behind Harry Kane. Even coming off the bench in Germany's massive 7-1 win over Curacao, Undav made an impact with a goal and assist. Stuttgart acted quickly to extend his contract before the tournament, likely saving themselves from a bidding war as he nears 30.

Ayyoub Bouaddi | Lille & Morocco | £60m

Few teenagers dominate Brazil's midfield like Ayyoub Bouaddi. At just 18, with only three senior caps, he impressed against one of the world’s best teams in Morocco’s Group C opener. European giants like Arsenal and Real Madrid had already noted him for his mature Ligue 1 displays last year. If he continues at this level, expect several top clubs to vie for his signature before summer’s transfer window closes.

Bradley Barcola | Paris Saint-Germain & France | £65m

PSG face a tough choice with Bradley Barcola. Despite his talent, he’s often on the bench due to competition from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, and Ousmane Dembele. France’s coach also benched him against Senegal, but Barcola seized his chance late, scoring shortly after coming on. His £65m valuation reflects growing interest, though breaking into France’s starting XI remains challenging.

Nico Paz | Como & Argentina | £72.5m

Nico Paz might not be a household name yet, but that’s shifting fast. Released by Real Madrid in 2024, he’s flourished under Cesc Fabregas at Como, netting 12 Serie A goals in 2025-26. Although mostly a substitute behind Messi in Argentina’s squad, his free-kick goal in March turned heads. His value dipped slightly but remains strong.

Enzo Fernandez | Chelsea & Argentina | £85m

Enzo Fernandez arrived at Chelsea for £106.8m in 2023, becoming a rare bright spot amid turmoil. With Xabi Alonso now managing, Fernandez faces a decision: stay or move, possibly to Real Madrid. Without Champions League football, Chelsea might need to sell. His solid World Cup performances could push his price higher.

Yan Diomande | RB Leipzig & Ivory Coast | £90m

Transfer rumors swirl around 19-year-old Yan Diomande. His electric Bundesliga displays have caught eyes across Europe, putting him alongside talents like Benjamin Sesko and Josko Gvardiol. His standout World Cup showing in Ivory Coast’s win over Ecuador has upped his value by £10m. Leipzig demand close to £100m for their star forward.

Morgan Rogers | Aston Villa & England | £90m

England manager Thomas Tuchel faced a tough call between Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham. Choosing Bellingham to start paid off, but Rogers’ consistent form with Aston Villa, including Europa League success and Champions League qualification, keeps him in the conversation. Big moments in the tournament could push his value higher as top clubs watch closely.

Elliot Anderson | Nottingham Forest & England | £105m

Elliot Anderson has skyrocketed from Newcastle fringe player to England regular under Tuchel. Manchester United and Manchester City are locked in a battle to sign him, with fees expected to exceed £100m. His polished World Cup debut against Croatia only adds fuel to the fire.

Julian Alvarez | Atletico Madrid & Argentina | £115m

Once let go by Manchester City, Julian Alvarez is now valued at £115m after impressing for Atletico Madrid. Pep Guardiola may regret the sale if Alvarez shines at the World Cup and moves to Arsenal or rivals like Barcelona or Real Madrid. His impact so far has been limited but expect more chances ahead.

Michael Olise | Bayern Munich & France | £135m

Bayern’s £50m capture of Michael Olise looks like a steal. The French winger has dazzled in Bundesliga and Champions League action. His World Cup assist for Mbappe against Senegal lifted his value by £10m, confirming his status as one of Europe’s brightest attackers.

Lamine Yamal | Barcelona & Spain | £195m

Only 18, Lamine Yamal might be football’s most valuable player. Despite an injury limiting his minutes in Spain’s opening match, his presence alone lifts expectations. His value dipped slightly after a goalless draw with Cape Verde, but his role will surely grow.