Victor Osimhen Retains Elite Market Value Despite Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup Heartbreak

Victor Osimhen has once again underlined his status as one of world football’s biggest stars after keeping his place among the most valuable players on the planet, despite Nigeria missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles striker, who enjoyed another outstanding campaign with Turkish champions Galatasaray, continues to command a market value of €75 million, according to Transfermarkt’s latest global valuation update.
While several players saw their values rise or fall following the World Cup, Osimhen’s valuation remained unchanged, highlighting the continued confidence in his quality and consistency at club level.
Osimhen Continues to Shine at Galatasaray
Since arriving at Galatasaray, Osimhen has established himself as one of Europe’s deadliest forwards.
The Nigerian international has played a crucial role in the club’s domestic success, delivering goals consistently and proving to be one of the Turkish Super Lig’s standout performers.
Across all competitions, the prolific striker has registered:
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 74 |
| Goals | 59 |
| Assists | 16 |
| Current Market Value | €75 million |
His remarkable performances have helped Galatasaray maintain its dominance in Turkish football while strengthening his reputation as one of Europe’s elite attackers.
World Cup Absence Fails to Affect His Market Value
Although Osimhen’s club form remained exceptional, Nigeria endured another painful World Cup qualification campaign.
The Super Eagles failed to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African play-offs.
Osimhen was unable to make the desired impact after picking up an injury during the first half of the decisive encounter. DR Congo eventually booked their place at the tournament after emerging victorious in a tense penalty shootout.
Despite missing football’s biggest competition, the setback had little effect on Osimhen’s global standing.
Transfermarkt’s latest rankings still place him among the top 55 most valuable footballers in the world, making him the only player currently playing in the Turkish Super Lig to feature on the prestigious list.
Transfermarkt Rewards Consistency Over Circumstance
The latest market value review considered both the recently concluded FIFA World Cup and players’ performances throughout the season.
While many stars experienced significant changes in valuation, Osimhen remained one of the few elite players whose market value stayed unchanged.
Other high-profile players who also maintained their valuations include:
- Arda Güler (Real Madrid)
- Kenan Yıldız (Juventus)
For Osimhen, the decision reflects the consistency he has displayed over the past season rather than Nigeria’s collective disappointment on the international stage.
Lamine Yamal Becomes World’s Most Valuable Footballer
Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal now sits at the top of the global market value rankings after receiving a massive €20 million increase.
The Spanish winger is now valued at €220 million, making him the most valuable footballer in the world.
Top Five Most Valuable Players in World Football
| Rank | Player | Club | Market Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lamine Yamal | Barcelona | €220m |
| 2 | Erling Haaland | Manchester City | — |
| 3 | Kylian Mbappé | Real Madrid | — |
| 4 | Michael Olise | Bayern Munich | — |
| 5 | Jude Bellingham | Real Madrid | — |
Osimhen’s Global Reputation Remains Intact
Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup may have denied Osimhen the opportunity to perform on football’s biggest stage, but it has done little to damage his reputation.
His outstanding numbers, consistent performances for Galatasaray, and continued recognition among the world’s most valuable footballers reinforce his standing as one of the game’s elite strikers.
With another season ahead and growing interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, Osimhen remains one of the hottest names in the transfer market and one of Africa’s most influential footballers.



