Jude Bellingham came out of the World Cup worth €30 million more, with his market value rising to €160 million. He played all eight matches for England, scored seven goals and added one assist, and the tournament left him as Real Madrid's clearest winner in value terms.
Bellingham's tournament case
The performance level backed up the jump. Bellingham averaged a 7.77 rating across his eight World Cup appearances, which fits the larger point: this was not just a flashy run of form, it was a tournament where he carried real weight for England.
The strongest sign was the role he filled. He is 23 years old, and he emerged as England's emotional leader, acting as the group's de facto captain. Real Madrid have been particularly encouraged by the maturity he displayed while leading England throughout the tournament.
Mbappé and Cucurella also rose
Kylian Mbappé also saw his value climb, up €20 million to €200 million after scoring 10 goals and providing two assists in eight appearances to win the Golden Boot. His 8.06 rating was the best of the Madrid trio, and the numbers make the case for a huge tournament even if France did not go all the way.
Marc Cucurella completed the picture with a €10 million rise to €60 million. He posted a 7.05 rating across eight appearances and supplied two assists, and he was one of three Real Madrid players named in the World Cup 2026 Best XI, alongside Bellingham and Mbappé.
Bellingham still stands out because his rise combined output, leadership and value in one package. Real Madrid will have liked what they saw from Mbappé and Cucurella too, but the England midfielder left the clearest imprint on the tournament.
Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 3 outlets. How we work →
