Saúl Ñíguez
Midfielder (Note: The card uses European football/soccer terminology, as this is a soccer card, not American football) · Atlético de Madrid (Spain)
Topps Match Attax UEFA Champions League #149
Year & Era
2019-20 — Modern Era
Card Type
Base Card / Regular Season Trading Card Game Card
Grade
4-5 (VG-EX) estimated
Rarity
Common; high print volume as a standard utility card for the Match Attax game.
Overall Assessment
This is a common gameplay card from the 2019-20 Topps Match Attax soccer set. While Saúl is a respected professional, this card's condition and high print run make it a 'common' item most suitable for a team collector or young fan's binder rather than a financial investment.
Condition Grade
4-5 (VG-EX) estimated
Centering Assessment
Front: Skewed slightly to the bottom-left; Back: Not visible, but typical of mass-produced TCG cards with inconsistent borders.
Surface Condition
Fair/Good; Visible surface wear and scratching typical of a card used for gameplay. Minor scuffing on the black border edges.
Corner Condition
Soft and rounded; notable whitening and impact dings on the bottom-right and bottom-left corners. The upper corners also show flattening.
Edge Condition
Significant edge wear/chipping especially on the left and right vertical edges, where the black ink has worn off to reveal the white stock.
Print Quality
Standard for game cards; decent color saturation but lacks the high-end finishing of premium hobby sets.
Estimated Value
$0.05 - $0.50 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Condition is below average compared to 'pack fresh' copies; most collectors prefer cards with sharp black borders which show wear easily.
Authentication Tips
Check for the official UEFA hologram on the reverse and Topps branding. This specific card is rarely counterfeited due to low market value.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended; the cost of grading ($15-$25+) far exceeds the market value of the card.
Red Flags
No significant signs of alteration or counterfeit, just heavy play-wear/handling.
Provenance Notes
Originally distributed in multipacks, starter kits, or booster packs throughout Europe by Topps.
Historical Context
Saúl was a vital part of Diego Simeone's Atlético Madrid system during this period, known for scoring spectacular goals in the Champions League.
Market Trends
Stable/Low; Saúl's market peaked around 2017-2019; standard game cards like this generally do not fluctuate in price unless the player achieves historic status.
Investment Potential
Very Low; as a base game card in poor condition, it is unlikely to appreciate in value.
Similar Cards
2019 Topps Chrome Saúl, Panini Prizm UEFA Euro cards, other Atlético Madrid 'Match Attax' cards from the 2018-2021 seasons.
Display & Preservation
Penny sleeve and top loader if the card has sentimental value; otherwise, standard binder storage is appropriate.
Interesting Facts
Match Attax is more of a strategic trading card game (TCG) than a pure collectible, with the stats on the left (Speed, Tackle, etc.) used for gameplay.