Martin Zubimendi has watched the 2026 World Cup unfold from the bench while his market value stays locked at €75 million.
What happened?
Transfermarkt’s mid-tournament snapshot on 14 July 2026 placed Zubimendi among the 20 most valuable players yet to see a single minute on the pitch in Qatar. The Real Sociedad star shares the top of that list with Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo (€70 m), while Germany’s Assan Ouédraogo (€28 m) represents the only other player under 30 in the group. Altogether, the 20 bench-bound assets are worth €626 million.
The snapshot arrived ahead of the semi-finals, when the knockout stage was already under way. Zubimendi’s inclusion reflects how clubs continue to bank on young midfielders even when they are not yet first-choice for their national teams.
Why it matters for Martin Zubimendi
At 25, Zubimendi has established himself as one of La Liga’s most reliable deep-lying playmakers. His €75 m valuation—higher than Spain teammate Rodri’s €70 m at the same snapshot—signals the market’s belief in his ceiling rather than his current role under de la Fuente. The fact he has yet to kick a ball in Qatar does not erase the €100 m clause Real Sociedad inserted in his contract last summer.
For Zubimendi, the optics are mixed. He travels with the Spain squad but remains an unused option. The squad’s 1-0 quarter-final win over Germany on 9 July showed how tight the midfield pecking order is. Luis de la Fuente’s preference for Busquets, Rodri and Pedri leaves Zubimendi as the fourth midfield name on the teamsheet.
What comes next?
Spain’s semi-final against France on 15 July 2026 offers Zubimendi his clearest path to minutes. If de la Fuente rotates after a gruelling quarter-final, Zubimendi could enter in the final 20 minutes. A cameo would instantly shift the narrative from “bench asset” to “tournament contributor.”
Real Sociedad will also watch closely. Zubimendi’s €75 m valuation underpins any future bid; a strong World Cup cameo could lift his price tag further. The club’s hierarchy have repeatedly stated they will only sell if the bid matches the release clause.
The bigger picture
Zubimendi is not alone. The list of €50 m-plus players yet to play in Qatar also includes Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel (€80 m) and Chelsea’s Romeo Lavia (€65 m). Their situations highlight how clubs are locking in young talent before the players have locked down starting berths. For Zubimendi, the next 48 hours in Qatar could decide whether he stays a €75 m prospect or becomes a €100 m performer.