The most expensive lineup for the 2026 World Cup: seven forwards each valued at least €140 million, with a new €100 million defender anchoring the backline.

The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico will start in the middle of this month, and the 48-team squads have been released. As a warm-up for the 2026 World Cup, Transfermarkt has listed the tournament's most valuable starting eleven (3-5-2). Notably, all seven offensive players are worth at least €140 million, and a fresh €100 million defender anchors the backline.

The most expensive 2026 World Cup lineup (3-5-2) totals €1.48 billion:

• Two forwards: Erling Haaland / Norway / €200 million, Kylian Mbappé / France / €200 million
• Two wingers: Vinícius Júnior / Brazil / €150 million (left), Lamine Yamal / Spain / €200 million (right)
• Three midfielders: Pedri / Spain / €150 million, João Neves / Portugal / €140 million, Vitinha / Portugal / €140 million
• Three defenders: Pau Cubarsí / Spain / €80 million, William Saliba / France / €100 million, Willian Pacho / Ecuador / €80 million
• Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa / Portugal / €40 million

Among them, Haaland and Yamal, both valued at €200 million, are making their World Cup debuts. Market value does not equal team strength; this most valuable XI is just a way to warm up for the World Cup. The quadrennial World Cup is the greatest event in sports, and we hope the 2026 tournament brings you the passion and joy of football.