In the world of football, a player's transfer value often reflects their potential, talent, and impact on the field. In Southeast Asia, the growth of football and the increasing emergence of young talent have created a dynamic market for skilled players.
The list of the most expensive players in the region not only highlights the investments made by clubs in team development but also shows how Southeast Asian football is gaining more attention on the international stage. Let’s take a closer look at the top players on this list and the factors that influence their market value.
Indonesia Dominates the Top Rankings
In the list of the most expensive players in Southeast Asia, Indonesia dominates the top ten, occupying six of the highest spots. Mees Hilgers leads as the most valuable player in the region, with a value of €7.00 million.
Thailand follows closely with three players making the list, affirming that they, too, have significant potential in the football world. Meanwhile, Gerrit Holtmann from the Philippines also secured a place on this list, adding more competition to the ranks of the region’s most valuable players.
Indonesia Becomes the Most Valuable Squad
Indonesia not only stands out in the ASEAN arena but also in Asia, earning a spot among the most valuable football squads. In ASEAN, the Indonesian national team now holds the highest market value in Southeast Asia.
With the addition of several descent players, the market value of the Indonesian national team has increased significantly. The Garuda squad has now made it into the top ten teams with the highest market value in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers for the Asian Zone.
According to Transfermarkt, this rise in the Indonesian national team's market value coincides with the arrival of Mees Hilgers. A central defender for FC Twente, Hilgers currently has the highest market value among Indonesian players at €7 million.
The market value of the Indonesian national team continues to rise and now stands at €24.53 million. This achievement puts the Garuda squad in a highly competitive position in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers for the Asian Zone, where the team is among the top ten teams with the highest market value.
Most Market-Valued National Teams in Asia:
- Japan – €272 million
- South Korea – €169 million
- Iran – €47.45 million
- Australia – €39.8 million
- UAE – €35.8 million
- Uzbekistan – €35.55 million
- Saudi Arabia – €29.33 million
- Indonesia – €24.53 million
- Qatar – €20.68 million
- Jordan – €17 million.
