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Top 10 Best Football Club in the World (Ranked)

19 min
best football club in the world
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There are several football clubs all over the world, along with passionate supporters. Several clubs are historic and have performed brilliantly in the past years. When it comes to determining the best football club, it becomes difficult. There can be several factors to determine the best football club in the world. From Arsenal to Real Madrid, many clubs have seen immense success over the years. From brand value to net worth, the clubs have made a name for themselves.

These clubs have years and years of history – some clubs are older than 100+ years, some hold cultural significance for their die-hard fans. These clubs are more than just teams; they are institutions steeped in tradition and backed by passionate fan bases, and of course, driven by the hunger to win accolades. Whether it’s the electric atmosphere of a packed stadium or the brilliance of a perfectly executed goal, each club on this list has carved its name into football history. Through iconic players, legendary managers, and unforgettable moments, they’ve shaped the sport’s past and continue to define its future.

As the current season of 2024/25 is about to end the a question is surfacing on the internet that which football club is the best in the world. Without further delay lets deep dive into the rankings factors and the top 10 best clubs in the world, followed by the detailed list of the best football club in the world.

List of Best Football Club in the World

There is often a debate among fans about which are the best football clubs in the world. It can depend on several different factors and success, including the history of the clubs. Discover the top 10 most popular football clubs in the world, ranked by global reach and success. Explore the teams that dominate the sport with loyal supporters and historic achievements. We will also delve deep into the best football club in the world. We will also talk about the top 10 football clubs in the world.

RankClubCountryLeague
10Manchester UnitedEnglandPremier League
9AC MilanItalySerie A
8Manchester CityEnglandPremier League
7ChelseaEnglandPremier League
6ArsenalEnglandPremier League
5Bayern MunichGermanyBundesliga
4Real MadridSpainLa Liga
3Paris Saint-GermainFranceLigue 1
2LiverpoolEnglandPremier League
1FC BarcelonaSpainLa Liga
Top 10 best football club in the world

How we Ranked the Top 10 Best Football Club in the World?

To keep our ranking transparent, we have decided to reveal our ranking factors to our readers. After analysing the points below, we have determined the ranking of the 10 best football club in the world

  1. Trophies Won – This will include continental as well as domestic success of the club. This will show how many trophies the club has won. This factor has helped us to compare the competitiveness of the club and its ability to perform domestically and internationally.
  2. Legacy – The legacy of a club defines its future and influences the decision-making of the club. In this factor, we will also see the iconic players who were made or produced by the club and the managers who had an impressive stint at the club.
  3. Current Form: Club performance in the past 365 days is another crucial factor in determining the rankings of the best football clubs around the world. It is solely based on the points earned per game in the last 365 days.
  4. Club Infrastructure: Last but not least, Modern stadiums, training facilities, and youth academies show a club’s strength off the pitch. Manchester United’s Old Trafford and Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium are examples of top infrastructure that supports success. Strong Club infrastructure often attracts talents from their younger age, and it also reflects club's growth.

Which is the Best Football Club in the World?

Before we start ranking the top 10 football clubs in the world, we would like to provide further details of our ranking metrics. Rankings are not based on the revenue, budget, or attendees that attend the match in the stadium. It is completely based on the club’s performance over the year and its legacy. Let’s now move on to the list of top 10 best football clubs in the world

10. Manchester United - Premier League

Man United players form a hurdle. (Image Credits: Official X@/ManUnited)
Man United players form a hurdle. (Image Credits: X/@ManUtd)

Manchester United stands tall with a current value matching arch-rival Real Madrid at $6.55 billion. With a substantial 30% one-year value change and impressive revenue of $779 million, Manchester United’s financial mastery solidifies its status as a formidable force within the footballing world. The fan favorite players for this club were George Best, Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Wayne Rooney, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester United is still trying to get back on track, but as the saying goes, it is easier said than done. The club over the decade has changed numerous managers, but still finds it difficult to get back among the best in the Premier League. However, the club started performing well in the latter half of the season and were on the verge of winning a Champions League spot, which they lost to Tottenham Hotspur due to a loss in the Europa League Finals, which makes them one of the best clubs in the world. Old Trafford, the “Theatre of Dreams,” and the Carrington training complex are world-class, nurturing stars like Marcus Rashford. Their global fanbase and infrastructure solidify their status as the best football club.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonPremier League x 20, FA Cup x 12, League Cup x 6, Community Shield x 21, UEFA Champions League x 3, UEFA Europa League x 1, UEFA Super Cup x 1, Intercontinental Cup x 1, FIFA Club World Cup x 1
Established1878
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – Carrington. Strong legacy of homegrown talent (e.g., Class of ’92). Emphasis on youth development while also investing in transfers.
Manchester United Key Stats

9. AC Milan - Serie A

AC MILAN
Members of AC Milan pose for a photo. (Image Credits: X/@acmilan)

AC Milan ranks 9th in the list due to their prestigious history and recent resurgence. With 7 UEFA Champions League titles, they remain one of Europe’s most decorated clubs. Their domestic success includes 19 Serie A trophies, showcasing sustained excellence. While their golden era peaked in the late ’80s and early 2000s, the club faced a period of decline post-2010. Financial instability and mismanagement led to a lack of silverware and poor league finishes.

However, a strong revival under Stefano Pioli, including the 2021–22 Serie A title, marks Milan’s return to elite competition. Their legacy and growing young squad justify their top-10 global ranking. Icons like Paolo Maldini and Kaka shaped Milan’s identity on the field, while legendary managers such as Arrigo Sacchi and Carlo Ancelotti defined their tactical dominance in Europe. The team has now started to perform well domestically and also qualifies for the UEFA Champions League more often than during the turmoil period they had before 2020.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonSerie A x 19, Coppa Italia x 5, Supercoppa Italiana x 7, UEFA Champions League x 7, UEFA Super Cup x 5, FIFA Club World Cup x 1, Intercontinental Cup x 3, European Cup Winners’ Cup x 2
Established1899
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – Milan Primavera. Club historically develops Italian youth (e.g., Maldini) but in recent years has focused more on international scouting and strategic transfers.
AC Milan Key Stats

8. Manchester City - Premier League

Man City players celebrate after a goal. (Image Credits: Official X@/ManCity)
Man City players celebrate after a goal. (Image Credits: X/@ManCity)

Manchester City takes the eighth spot with a meteoric rise in recent years, boasting a current value of $5.1 billion. With an impressive 18% one-year value change and substantial revenue of $815 million, the Sky Blues demonstrate strategic financial management, solidifying their position as a Premier League powerhouse. Manchester City have enjoyed significant success under Pep Guardiola‘s reign, from their first-ever treble-winning season in 2022-23 to dominating the football scene in England by lifting consecutive league titles. City’s recent success has made them one of the best clubs in the world.

They are highly rated and can be the best club in the world. Commercial deals have been a key factor in their profits, bringing the most amount of profit, followed by broadcast and Matchday. Man City has been successful in recent years and can surely be called one of the best football clubs. The club was lately criticised for its spending on top players around the club, but things have shifted now, Manchester also focuses on young talents.

The club has seen players like Colin Bell, Sergio Agüero, David Silva, Vincent Kompany, Yaya Touré, all of whom have contributed a lot to the club’s success domestically as well as in the European Championships. The managers Joe Mercer, Roberto Mancini, and Cityzens’ favourite Pep Guardiola raised the bar for the upcoming Manchester City manager.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonPremier League x 9, FA Cup x 6, League Cup x 8, Community Shield x 6, UEFA Champions League x 1, UEFA Super Cup x 1, FIFA Club World Cup x 1
Established1880
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – City Football Academy. Heavy focus on global transfers but integrates academy talent like Phil Foden.
Manchester City Key Stats

7. Chelsea - Premier League

Chelsea players are in a hurdle. (Image Credits: Official X@/Chelsea)
Chelsea players are in a hurdle. (Image Credits: X/ChelseaFC)

Securing the 7th spot is Chelsea Football Club, standing tall with a current value of $3.13 billion. Historically, the Blues had enjoyed immense success during the Roman Abramovich era, lifting successive league titles and signing big names, splashing millions in the transfer market. However, post-ownership change, their on-pitch performances have gone down since 2022, following Todd Boehly’s consortium takeover.

Chelsea has won a total of 34 trophies in their history. This includes six EPL titles, eight FA Cups, five League Cups, two UEFA Champions Leagues, two UEFA Europa Leagues, 2 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cups, 2 UEFA Super Cups, and 1 FIFA Club World Cup. Despite a stable value, Chelsea presents a fresh perspective on financial strategy, highlighted by a revenue of $642 million and an operating income of $35 million, signifying both stability and growth.

The English club Chelsea has a big history with iconic players like Frank Lampard, John Terry, Didier Drogba, Gianfranco Zola, and Petr Čech playing for the Blues, and managers like José Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, and Thomas Tuchel, who added more accolades to the club’s name. The club now focuses on young talents after Abramovich sold the club to their new owners.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonPremier League x 6, FA Cup x 8, League Cup x 5, Community Shield x 4, UEFA Champions League x 2, UEFA Europa League x 2, UEFA Super Cup x 2, FIFA Club World Cup x 1
Established1905
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – Cobham. One of the best academies in England; the Club now promotes youth alongside big-money signings.
Chelsea Key Stats

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6. Arsenal - Premier League

Arsenal lineup against Real Madrid in the UCL. (Image Credits: Official X@Arsenal)
Arsenal lineup against Real Madrid in the UCL. (Image Credits: X/@Arsenal)

Arsenal Football Club, with its illustrious legacy, emerges with a current value of $2.6 billion. Despite a modest 10% one-year value change, the Gunners maintain a formidable revenue of $490 million, solidifying their position as a financial force in the Premier League. The Gunners have a huge fan base all over the world, and the fans are vocal with their support.

They also spend a handsome amount on transfers and bring in great players who become assets for the team. Arsenal recently defeated Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final and can be one of the best clubs in the world. Arsenal in recent years, has done well and now stands in a position among the best football clubs in the world. In domestic football, Arsenal have won 13 league titles (including one unbeaten title), a record 14 FA Cups, 2 League Cups, 17 FA Community Shields, and a Football League Centenary Trophy. The Gunners also have a strong fan base that supports them during their thick and thin.

Though the club lacks an intercontinental trophy but with recent development, it is pretty evident that they will compete for it strongly in the coming years. The club has seen iconic players like Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, Tony Adams, and Patrick Vieira in the Emirates Stadium. Last but not least, Arsene Wenger, one of the best coaches in the world, has coached the English side. These iconic players and coaches played a significant role in pushing the club’s Legacy.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonPremier League / First Division x 13, FA Cup x 14, League Cup x 2, Community Shield x 17, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup x 1, Inter-Cities Fairs Cup x 1
Established1886
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – Hale End. Strong focus on promoting youth (e.g., Saka, Smith Rowe), and supplemented by smart signings.
Arsenal Key Stats

5. Bayern Munich - Bundesliga

bayern munich
Bayern Munich players. (Image Credits: X/@FCBayernEN)

Representing the German Bundesliga, Bayern Munich stakes its claim as a financial giant with a current value of $5 billion. Bundesliga heavyweights, Bayern Munich, are the biggest and most successful club in Germany. Currently leading the league table of most Bundesliga titles. Boasting a well-balanced financial portfolio, Bayern’s 14% one-year value change, coupled with $739 million in revenue and an operating income of $133 million, exemplifies German precision both on and off the pitch.

While the broadcasting deal brought the least amount of profits, subsequently, the Bundesliga club charted 765.4 million Euros in 2024. Bayern is already one of the most widely supported clubs in the world, with millions of followers in a variety of different countries. Bayern is one of the best football clubs in the world. The club supporters have seen the likes of Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, Oliver Kahn, Philipp Lahm, Thomas Müller playing for their club, and German coaches like Ottmar Hitzfeld, Hansi Flick also. making the club one of the best clubs to ever exist on this planet. With the addition of players like Harry Kane, the club is again in contention for winning the Champions League.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonBundesliga x 33, DFB-Pokal x 20, DFL-Supercup x 10, UEFA Champions League x 6, UEFA Cup x 1, UEFA Super Cup x 2, FIFA Club World Cup x 2, Intercontinental Cup x 2
Established1900
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – FC Bayern Campus. Focus on German youth and strategic signings. Strong domestic scouting.
FC Bayern Munich Key Stats

4. Real Madrid - La Liga

Real Madrid players lineup before the game. (Image Credits: Official X@/RealMadrid)
Real Madrid’s players lineup before the game. (Image Credits: X/@realmadrid)

Real Madrid are always rated as the best football club in the world. With a commanding current value of $6.06 billion, Real Madrid’s financial prowess remains unmatched. Credit goes to their matchday ticket sales and high match attendance at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu.Their management has made various key decisions in revenue and profit handling while spending the funds on investing in the signing of world-class players. Under the supervision of Fiorentino Perez, they are expected to dominate the rich list.

Despite a modest 19% one-year value change and a minor operating income deficit, the club’s robust revenue of $807 million cements its position as the undisputed champion of financial value in world football. Los Blancos are certainly one of the best football clubs in the world. Real Madrid have won 15 Champions League which makes them stand first among the best football clubs in the world in terms of trophies. Real Madrid slipped to 4th position from first due to their Turbulent and trophyless season of 2025/26. However, talking about the infrastructure, they have some of the best facilities around the world, and when it comes to Bernabeu, no other stadium comes close to what the stadium contributes to the club's financial health.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonLa Liga x 35, Copa del Rey x 20, Supercopa de España x 12, UEFA Champions League x 15, UEFA Super Cup x 5, FIFA Club World Cup x 5, Intercontinental Cup x 3
Established1902
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – La Fábrica. Club focuses on signing world-class talents but has also produced key players like Raúl and Carvajal from its academy.
Manchester United Key Stats

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3. Paris Saint-Germain - Ligue 1

The PSG team pose for a photo. (Image Credits: Official X@/PSG)
The PSG team poses for a photo. (Image Credits: X/@PSG_English)

Crossing borders into Ligue 1, Paris Saint-Germain emerges as a formidable financial powerhouse with a staggering current value exceeding $4.21 billion. On the other hand, the Parisians have continued their dominance in the French top division, securing successive league titles. Despite facing complexities in football economics, PSG’s remarkable 32% one-year value change and $739 million in revenue underscore their global appeal and financial dominance. Given their lucrative sponsorship deals, broadcasting rights, tickets, and merchandise sales, they have managed to overcome quite a few household names in the European circuit.

Before you question PSG's fourth rank despite winning the quadruple this season, we would like to clarify that our ranking list of the best football club in the world was based on performance over 365 days, and PSG had a hard start to the season, especially in the Champions League. However, the club went on to win the competition, their league stage finish, so it's quite evident that earlier, Enrique had faced some problems and rectified them. The best part about the Ligue 1 side is that they are not relying on hefty transfers now, rather they are building a system under Luis Enrique, which will help the team to earn long-term success.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonLigue 1 x 11, Coupe de France x 14, Coupe de la Ligue x 9, Trophée des Champions x 11, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup x 1
Estblished –1970
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – PSG Academy. Produces quality youth (e.g., Coman), but club mainly relies on marquee signings.
PSG Key Stats

2. Liverpool - Premier League

Liverpool (Image Credit: X/@LFC)

Liverpool Football Club secures the second position with a current value of $5.37 billion, experiencing a remarkable 19% one-year value change. The Merseyside club is one of the most popular football teams in the world, and it reflects on its financial sheet as well, making them one of the richest clubs in England. In terms of sporting success, they have numerous Premier Leagues, UEFA Champions Leagues, and several domestic championships in their cabinet. They are one of the best football team in the world.

Legends like Steven Gerrard, Kenny Dalglish, and Jürgen Klopp’s transformative management have made the club the finest contenders to be the best football club in the world. Talking about the infrastructure, the club has iconic Anfield as one of its assets, plus the youth academy at Kirkby showcases Liverpool’s commitment to excellence. The Premier League win made the club one of the most successful clubs in the history of the Premier League, alongside Manchester United, with 20 trophies. As the star players are getting old and leaving the club, the management is keen on buying some of the best players available in the world to rebuild the squad for a longer sporting project. Players like Forian Wirtz, Mios Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong had already joined the Reds.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonEnglish First Division / Premier League x 19, FA Cup x 8, League Cup x 9, Community Shield x 16, UEFA Champions League x 6, UEFA Europa League x 3, UEFA Super Cup x 4, FIFA Club World Cup x 1
Established1892
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – Kirkby Academy. Mix of youth (Trent Alexander-Arnold) and high-profile signings. Balanced approach.
Liverpool Key Stats

1. Barcelona (Spain)

FC Barcelona players are in full form. (Image Credits: Official X@Barcelona)
FC Barcelona players are in full form. (Image Credits: X/@FCBarcelona)

At Number 1 we have the Catalan club, Barcelona. The La Liga giants might have struggled to maintain their financial accounts due to mismanagement and monetary obligations, forcing them to spend huge money in the transfer market, which also hindered their process of registering new signings last season. Barcelona is the best football club in the world based on their recent performances over the last 365 days, plus the trajectory shows that from here on, the sky is the limit for the Catalan giants.

Despite their downfall in the early 2020s, the club remained focused and promoted academy players & Barca B players to their main team. The club is now back to winning ways and is in contention for winning domestic and European Trophies. The club was once home to great players like Johan Cruyff, Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi, Xavi, Andrés Iniesta and was also managed by some of the best managers – Johan Cruyff, Pep Guardiola, and Luis Enrique. Talking about the infrastructure, FC Barcelona is all set to return to their home ground, Camp Nou, on 10th August 2025. The renovated stadium will help the team earn more revenue over the course of time.

Key StatsFigures
Major Trophies WonLa Liga x 27, Copa del Rey x 31, Supercopa de España x 14, UEFA Champions League x 5, UEFA Super Cup x 5, FIFA Club World Cup x 3, Inter-Cities Fairs Cup x 3
Established1899
Recent ApproachYouth Academy – La Masia. Strong focus on developing players internally (Messi, Xavi, Iniesta), though major transfers are also key.
FC Barcelona Key Stats

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FAQs

Q. Which club is first in football?
+
A. Real Madrid is currently ranked as the best club in the world.
Q. Which club is the oldest football club in history of football?
+
A. The oldest football club in the world is Sheffield Football Club.
Q. Which club is top in LaLiga?
+
A. FC Barcelona currently tops La Liga.
Q. Which club has the highest fan following?
+
A. Real Madrid has the highest fan following among all the clubs in the world.
Q. Club with the highest number of UCL Trophies
+
A. Real Madrid holds the record for winning the most UCL Trophies.

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Edited by- Rohan Singh
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