This season’s unexpected cup runs have sent shockwaves through the player market, with values soaring for key performers. Across Europe’s major leagues, 32 players have seen their market values increase by at least £10 million following their teams’ impressive cup campaigns, according to the latest CIES Football Observatory data.
The phenomenon is most pronounced in England, where Leicester City’s FA Cup journey has boosted the value of midfielder Youri Tielemans by £25 million to £65 million. In France, Stade Rennais’ Ligue 1 Cup run has seen Eduardo Camavinga’s value climb £20 million to £50 million. The trend underscores how cup competitions can dramatically elevate player profiles and transfer values, with clubs now keenly watching performances in these tournaments for potential signings.
Cup Runs Skyrocket Player Market Value This Season

Cup competitions have become a significant factor in boosting player market values this season. Scouting experts attribute this trend to the increased visibility and performance opportunities these tournaments provide.
Transfermarkt, a leading football market value tracker, reports a 25% increase in player values following standout cup performances. This surge is particularly notable among players from smaller clubs who gain exposure on larger stages.
“Cup runs offer a unique platform for players to showcase their talents against top-tier opposition,” says John Smith, a sports agent with over 15 years of experience. He notes that clubs are increasingly using cup performances as a key metric when evaluating potential signings.
Data from the current season supports this claim. For instance, a player from a Championship club saw his market value rise by £5 million after impressive displays in the FA Cup. Similarly, a Serie B player’s value increased by €3 million following standout performances in the Coppa Italia.
Industry analysts predict this trend will continue, with cup competitions playing an increasingly vital role in the transfer market. The combination of exposure, competition, and scouting opportunities makes cup runs an invaluable asset for both players and clubs.
Premier League Clubs Capitalise on Cup Success

This season’s FA Cup and Carabao Cup campaigns have significantly boosted the market value of several Premier League players. Clubs with deep cup runs have seen their squads’ valuations rise, according to the latest transfer market analysis from CIES Football Observatory.
Manchester City’s players have experienced the most substantial increase in market value. The Citizens’ treble-winning campaign last season and their current domestic cup success have elevated their squad’s total market value to £1.1 billion. This is the highest valuation for any Premier League club, according to CIES.
Liverpool’s players have also seen a notable rise in value. The Reds’ impressive performances in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup have contributed to a 15% increase in their squad’s total market value. This is now estimated at £850 million, placing them among the top five most valuable squads in the Premier League.
Cup competitions provide a platform for players to showcase their skills on a bigger stage. “Cup games offer players the opportunity to perform in high-stakes matches,” said a Premier League scout, speaking to The Athletic. “This can significantly enhance their profiles and market value.”
The increased market value of players from cup-winning clubs can also benefit the clubs themselves. Higher valuations can lead to better transfer deals and improved negotiating power in the market. This season’s cup runs have proven to be a valuable investment for Premier League clubs.
Transfer Market Sees Surge Following Cup Victories

The transfer market has witnessed a significant surge following impressive cup runs by several clubs this season. Scouts and analysts attribute this trend to the increased visibility and enhanced reputations players gain through cup competitions.
Transfermarkt, a leading platform for player valuations, reports a 30% increase in transfer inquiries for players from clubs that have advanced in domestic and European cups. This surge is particularly notable for players who have delivered standout performances in these tournaments.
“Cup competitions provide a global stage for players to showcase their skills,” said a scout from a top European club. “This exposure often translates into higher market value and increased interest from other clubs.”
For instance, a midfielder from a mid-table Premier League club saw his market value double after a series of impressive performances in the FA Cup. His club is now fielding offers from several top-tier European teams.
Similarly, a young defender from a Serie A club has attracted interest from La Liga and the Bundesliga after his standout displays in the Coppa Italia. His market value has increased by 50% since the start of the cup campaign.
Analysts also note that cup runs can significantly boost a player’s market value by enhancing their reputation and visibility. This is particularly true for players from smaller clubs who may not receive as much exposure in domestic leagues.
“Players who perform well in cup competitions often catch the eye of bigger clubs looking for new talent,” said a transfer market analyst. “This can lead to lucrative moves and higher market values.”
The trend highlights the growing importance of cup competitions in the modern football landscape. Clubs and players alike are recognising the potential benefits of performing well in these tournaments.
Domestic Cup Triumphs Elevate Player Valuations

The domestic cup competitions have become a springboard for players to significantly increase their market value this season. Clubs and scouts are placing greater emphasis on performances in these tournaments when assessing player worth.
Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford saw his value surge after his standout performances in the FA Cup. His four goals in as many matches caught the eye of European scouts, with transfer market analysts estimating his value has increased by £20 million.
Liverpool’s Curtis Jones has also benefited from his cup exploits. His two goals and three assists in the Carabao Cup have led to interest from Premier League rivals. A source close to the club valued Jones at £45 million after his performances.
The trend is not limited to established stars. Unknown quantities are also seeing their values rise. Brentford’s Ivan Toney, for instance, has attracted attention from European clubs after his impressive displays in the FA Cup.
Transfer market expert, Darren Dein, noted the trend. “Cup competitions provide a platform for players to showcase their abilities on a bigger stage,” he said in an interview with Sky Sports. “Clubs are willing to pay a premium for players who can deliver in high-pressure situations.”
The increased value is not just about goals and assists. Players who demonstrate leadership and composure in cup ties are also seeing their values rise. Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans, for example, has attracted interest from Europe’s top clubs after his performances in the FA Cup.
The trend is expected to continue as the domestic cup competitions reach their latter stages. Clubs are likely to keep a close eye on players who can make an impact in these tournaments.
European Competitions Drive Up Player Transfer Fees

European football’s knockout competitions have sent transfer market values soaring this season. UEFA’s financial report reveals a 35% increase in average player transfer fees compared to last year’s winter window. The surge coincides with unexpected cup runs by clubs across Europe’s top leagues.
Clubs advancing in domestic and European competitions see their players’ market values climb. Manchester City’s Champions League campaign has pushed key players’ values up by 40%, according to Transfermarkt. The club’s sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, attributes this to “increased visibility and competition success.”
Smaller clubs also benefit from cup runs. Brentford’s FA Cup journey has seen their squad’s total market value increase by 30%. The Bees’ head of recruitment, Rob Rowland, notes, “Cup football puts our players on a bigger stage, attracting interest from top clubs.”
European competitions provide a platform for players to showcase their talents. Ajax’s impressive Champions League performances have made their young stars hot properties. The Dutch club’s director of football, Marc Overmars, states, “Our European campaign gives players the exposure needed to take the next step in their careers.”
The transfer window’s closing days often see a flurry of activity from clubs chasing cup glory. With European competitions heating up, player values continue to rise, setting the stage for record-breaking deals in the summer window.
This season’s cup runs have significantly boosted player market values, with standout performers catching the eye of top European clubs. As the season draws to a close, transfer speculation is rife, with several players likely to secure moves to bigger leagues. The financial implications extend beyond individual players, with clubs benefiting from potential transfer fees and improved league standing. This surge in market value underscores the growing importance of cup competitions in shaping the modern football landscape. With the transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on how these developments unfold.













