Highest valued QSL players. The Qatar Stars League has emerged as one of the most lucrative destinations for world-class footballers looking for a new challenge later in their careers. An abundance of wealth in the Gulf state has seen Qatari clubs shatter transfer records and poach some big names from Europe over the past decade. While the standard of play may not match the elite divisions, the lure of lucrative contracts and tax-free salaries continues to attract established talent to the Middle East. This article profiles the 10 most valuable players currently plying their trade in the QSL based on their estimated market values.
Marco Verratti (Italy, Central Midfield, 31 years old, Al-Arabi SC) – Valued at €25 million
In top spot valued at €25 million is Italian midfielder Marco Verratti. The 31-year-old PSG legend joined Al-Arabi in 2023 following a trophy-laden spell in France where he won 26 honors. Renowned for his technical ability, ball control and passing range, Verratti has been a key player for Italy when fit. His quality and experience continue to shine through for Al-Arabi.
Philippe Coutinho (Brazil, Attacking Midfield, 31 years old, Al-Duhail SC) – Valued at €20 million
In second valued at €9 million is Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho. The 30-year-old joined Al-Duhail in 2023 after struggling for form and regular football at Barcelona and then at Aston Villa. Coutinho has regained confidence in Qatar with 7 goals and 8 assists in 34 league games so far. His vision, chance creation and flair remain assets if he can maintain fitness levels.
Abdou Diallo (Senegal, Centre-Back, 27 years old, Al-Arabi) – Valued at €15 million
Senegalese centre-back Abdou Diallo is valued at €9 million in third. The 27-year-old moved to Al-Arabi from RB Leipzig last year. Comfortable on the ball and positionally sound, Diallo’s reading of the game and defensive solidity make him a reliable presence. He will be looking to help Al-Arabi challenge for honors.
Michael Olunga (Kenya, 29 years old, Al-Duhail) – Valued at €9 million
Kenyan striker Michael Olunga occupies fourth spot valued at €9 million. The 29-year-old has been a prolific presence in the QSL since joining Al-Duhail in 2020, scoring an impressive 53 goals in 65 league games. His predatory instincts and clinical finishing make him the most feared forward in the division.
Giovani (Brazil, Winger, 19 years old, Al-Sadd) – Valued at €9 million
In at number five valued at €9 million is 19-year-old Brazilian winger Giovani. Still developing physically, the teenager is already a key player for champions Al-Sadd with his pace, trickery and eye for goal. If he continues progressing at his current rate, European clubs will soon be monitoring his situation closely.
Róger Guedes (Brazil, Left Winger, 27 years old, Al-Rayyan SC) – Valued at €9 million
Guedes joined Al-Rayyan from Chinese club Shandong Taishan in 2022. He has extensive experience in top leagues with Sao Paulo, Palmeiras and Valencia, where he showed his dribbling ability, pace and eye for goal. Guedes scored 27 goals in 76 games for Brazil and was part of their 2019 Copa America winning squad. Now in his prime, he will look to star for Al-Rayyan and help them win trophies this season.
Gabriel Pereira (Brazil, Right Winger, 22 years old, Al-Rayyan SC) Valued at €7 million
Still only 22, Pereira has already played over 100 senior games for Corinthians and joined Al-Rayyan last year. He is renowned for his trickery, dribbling skills and work rate. If he can add goals and assists to his game consistently, Pereira has the potential to enhance his reputation further in Qatar. A Brazil youth international, he will hope to push for a senior call-up in the coming years.
Sofiane Boufal (Morocco/France, Left Winger, 30 years old, Al-Rayyan SC) – Valued at €7 million
The talented Boufal has played in Ligue 1 with Lille, Angers and Rennes since joining Southampton in 2016. He showed glimpses of his ability but struggled for consistency in England. In Qatar, Boufal has regained his confidence, scoring 15 goals in 50 league games so far. His close control, creativity and eye for goal make him a key player when on song.
Ibra Bamba (Cote d’Ivoire, Centre-Back, 21 years old, Al-Duhail SC) – Valued at €6.5 million
Bamba is still young but has already played over 50 senior games for Al-Duhail since joining in 2020. The Italian-born Ivorian reads the game well and is strong in the tackle. With his athleticism and potential to improve further, Bamba could attract interest from bigger leagues if he continues progressing. He will hope to push for an international career with Cote d’Ivoire.
Ibrahima Diallo (France/Senegal, Defensive Midfield, 24 years old, Al-Duhail SC) – Valued at €6.5 million
Diallo joined Al-Duhail from Monaco in 2021 and has been a regular starter since, showing his energy, tackling and ability to shield the defense. Still only 24, he already has Champions League experience with Monaco. If he enhances his passing and ball carrying over time, Diallo could attract suitors from major leagues again down the line.
In conclusion, the high valuations displayed serve to underline the pulling power of Qatari clubs. While some moves have not revived careers as hoped, the league does offer a comfortable lifestyle for players in their twilight years. It also provides developing youngsters like Giovani a great platform to enhance their reputations. The QSL has firmly established itself as a destination of choice for elite footballers across the globe.
