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1- Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales, Universidad Panamericana, Guadalajara, Mexico.
2- Escuela de Comunicación, Universidad Panamericana, Guadalajara, Mexico. , jsantana@up.edu.mx
Abstract:   (300 Views)
Background. Football is an important contributor to local economies.
Objectives. This research explores the variables associated with the value of forward soccer players.
Methods. A database with 500 soccer forwards with a market value of less than 40 million euros and who had at least one goal scored was generated from the Transfermarkt.de page. The values of the players were divided into ranges from 1 to 5, and an ordered logit model was carried out.
Results. A significant positive relationship was found between the value range of the forwards and playing in Europe, the logs of the goals, and the number of Instagram followers. A significant negative relationship was found between the value range and the logarithms of age and the number of minutes to score a goal. The model yields a correctly predicted percentage of 35.4%.
Conclusion. The study offers an accurate tool to analyze and predict player market value, emphasizing player position.
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APPLICABLE REMARKS
  • The findings highlight the interplay between performance metrics and perception-driven variables (e.g., Instagram followers), supporting theories that suggest value is not solely determined by performance but also by perceived popularity. Clubs can use the findings to identify undervalued forwards by focusing on measurable performance indicators like goals and minutes per goal while considering social media presence as a secondary factor for marketability. Players and their agents can consider the importance of brand building through social media.

Type of Study: Original Article | Subject: Sport Management and its related branches
Received: 2025/03/17 | Accepted: 2025/05/25

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