Napoli striker Rasmus Hojlund has been ranked as the second most valuable player in Serie A and the 13th most valuable in world football, according to the latest report from the CIES Football Observatory published on April 29, 2026. The Danish international, who joined the Partenopei in a significant transfer ahead of the 2025-26 season, is valued between 91 and 106 million euros in the study's estimation, placing him just behind Juventus's Kenan Yildiz in the Italian rankings.
The CIES report, which analyzes transfer values based on a proprietary algorithm considering age, contract, performance, and other factors, places Hojlund in elite global company. The top of the worldwide list is occupied by Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, Manchester City's Erling Haaland, and Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé. Hojlund's inclusion in this bracket underscores his rapid ascent since arriving in Naples, where he has established himself as the club's primary attacking focal point.
For Napoli, the valuation serves as a strong indicator of a successful investment. The club secured Hojlund's services to lead their attack in the post-Victor Osimhen era, and his high valuation reflects both his on-field impact and his significant resale value in the transfer market. His form has been a bright spot for the team as they navigate a period of transition under new management.
The context of the Serie A list further highlights Hojlund's standing. He leads a group of highly-rated young Italian-based talents that includes Inter's Pio Esposito, Bologna's Santiago Castro, and Milan's Strahinja Pavlovic. This suggests a shift in the league's market dynamics towards a new generation of stars, with Hojlund positioned as a central figure.
Hojlund's career trajectory has seen a steady climb. After emerging at Atalanta and a stint in the Premier League with Manchester United, his move to Napoli was seen as a chance to become the undisputed main striker. He has seized that opportunity, with his goal-scoring prowess and physical profile making him a perfect fit for the demands of Serie A. The CIES valuation is a direct consequence of that successful adaptation and consistent performance.
Looking forward, this valuation will inevitably fuel speculation regarding Hojlund's long-term future, though Napoli will consider him a cornerstone of their project. For now, the data confirms the club possesses one of European football's most prized assets, a status that brings both sporting prestige and significant financial leverage in any future negotiations.
