A Copa Sudamericana with Libertadores-Level Value
The 2023 edition of the Copa Sudamericana, starting on April 1st, will bring together 32 teams from 10 countries, with a total squad value of $2.015 billion (1.866 billion euros), according to BeSoccer Pro data for EFE. The final will take place on November 22 in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia. Teams like Fluminense, Atlético Mineiro, Cruzeiro, Corinthians, Gremio, Independiente, and defending champions Racing Club bring a lot of media attention to the competition.
Player Value and Brazilian Teams Dominate Valuations
The most valuable player of this edition is Colombian Jhon Arias, who, after winning the Copa Libertadores with Fluminense in 2023, is valued at $17.2 million. The entire Fluminense squad is estimated to be worth $183.4 million. Among the most valuable Brazilian players are Yuri Alberto from Corinthians, also valued at $17.2 million, and Rodrigo Garro, his teammate, valued at $16.5 million.
Brazil remains the country with the most expensive players in the Copa Sudamericana group stage. Most of the 25 most valuable players play for Brazilian clubs, highlighting the financial strength of these teams. The first non-Brazilian player on the list is Marcelino Moreno, midfielder for Lanús (Argentina), valued at $4.8 million.
Million-Dollar Prizes
As announced by Alejandro Domínguez, president of Conmebol, the champion of the 2025 Copa Sudamericana will receive $6.5 million. The 32 teams participating in the group stage, which starts this week, have already received $900,000.
Additionally, each victory in this phase will generate $115,000 for the teams. The Copa Sudamericana has become an increasingly lucrative and competitive tournament, attracting top players and teams aiming to secure their place in international football.