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The Netherlands among the billion-dollar teams: these are the most expensive squads of the World Cup.

The FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026, so the anticipation can slowly begin. MASTERS is already taking stock of the finances: which countries will send the most capital onto the pitch? The latest market values ​​from Transfermarkt offer a good insight. And the Netherlands? Financially speaking, it is happily holding its own in the top ranks.

It is no secret that a lot of money changes hands in top-level football. Yet, it remains fascinating to see how much value some countries can bring to the pitch these days. France tops the rankings with a squad worth a combined €1,53 billion. This makes Les Bleus currently the most expensive national team in the world.

The French certainly have no shortage of stars. Kylian Mbappé remains one of the most valuable players on earth, while names like William Saliba, Eduardo Camavinga, and Michael Olise also contribute significantly to the billion-dollar figure.

The ten most expensive national teams

1. France: €1,53 billion

2. England: €1,31 billion

3. Spain: €1,26 billion

4. Portugal: €1,02 billion

5. Germany: €998 million

6. Brazil: €912,2 million

7. The Netherlands: €837,2 million

8. Argentina: €817,5 million

9. Norway: €601 million

10. Belgium: €542,9 million

It is striking that four countries have now broken the €1 billion barrier. In addition to France, England, and Spain, Portugal now also belongs to that exclusive group.

That is mainly thanks to a new generation. Whereas for years Portugal was almost automatically linked to Cristiano Ronaldo, nowadays the market value is carried by players like João Neves, Rafael Leão, Vitinha, and Nuno Mendes. Neves is only 21 years old, but according to Transfermarkt, he now represents a value of €140 million.

For Dutch football fans, seventh place particularly catches the eye. With a total market value of €837,2 million, the Netherlands even ranks above Argentina, the reigning world champions.

Norway among the great powers

Perhaps the most surprising name in the top ten is Norway. The Scandinavian country ranks ninth, leaving Belgium, among others, behind.

The explanation is not very complicated. Erling Haaland is nowadays a football brand in his own right. The Manchester City striker has been among the most valuable players in the world for years and significantly boosts Norway's total value. Together with Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard, Norway possesses two absolute world stars.

Nevertheless, it remains a striking statistic. After all, Norway has not qualified for a World Cup since 1998. A high market value therefore helps, but still proves to be no guarantee of success.

Curious about the full ranking? Check it out. here. 

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