Lionel Messi's market value: Is he worth more or less than Cristiano Ronaldo?
Transfermarkt, a leading source for soccer player valuations, has released its latest market value assessments for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, revealing a significant gap between the two legendary figures. Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami CF in MLS, holds a market value of €20 million, considerably higher than Ronaldo’s current valuation of €12 million at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
Cristiano Ronaldo‘s market value has followed a dynamic trajectory throughout his illustrious career. His initial valuation was €18 million when he first emerged at Sporting CP. His value soared during his first stint at Manchester United, reaching €60 million, before culminating in his record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid for approximately €100 million.
While his market value remains relatively high, his current valuation reflects the realities of age and the competitive landscape of the modern game.
Lionel Messi’s market value has also experienced considerable fluctuation over time. His career began with an initial assessment of €3 million in 2005, quickly rising to €30 million. His peak value, reached during his Barcelona prime, was a staggering €200 million, reflecting his unparalleled dominance on the pitch.
His transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 saw his valuation decrease to €80 million, further dropping to €35 million in 2023. His current market value of €20 million, while still significant, reflects the natural decline that accompanies age in professional football.
Messi’s current market value advantage
Despite the downward trend in both players’ valuations, Messi currently enjoys a considerable advantage over Ronaldo in terms of market value. This difference highlights the evolving dynamics of the transfer market and the sustained impact of both players, particularly Messi’s longevity and sustained high performance despite playing in a less prominent league compared to Ronaldo’s current Saudi Arabia club.
It is important to remember that market value is a dynamic indicator, influenced by various factors such as age, performance, contract length, and the overall demand within the transfer market. While these figures provide insights into the relative value of each player, they do not necessarily fully encapsulate their complete impact and legacy on the football world.