Who Are the Most Successful Football Clubs in the World in the Premier League and Champions League?
In this review, we focus on the top-tier performances of English football clubs in two premier competitions: the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. These competitions serve as a benchmark for measuring a club’s dominance in English and European football.
Although many clubs have impressive domestic and international records, the English and European competitions provide a clear lens through which dominance is evaluated.
Most Successful Football Club in the World: MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 16: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates with his teammates after a goal during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg match between Real Madrid and Arsenal at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, Spain on April 16, 2025. Most Successful Football Club in the World (Photo by Burak Akbulut/Anadolu via Getty Images)
5. Arsenal FC – 13 League Titles, 0 Champions League Titles
With an impressive 13 league titles, Arsenal is one of England’s most illustrious teams. Their undefeated “Invincibles” season in 2003–04 serves as a testament to their domestic success. On the European scene, though, Arsenal has not yet won a Champions League championship. They came the closest in 2006, when they advanced to the championship game but lost to Barcelona. The Gunners have consistently qualified, but European glory is still elusive.
Most Successful Football Club in the World : LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 17: Reece James of Chelsea applauds the fans after Chelsea go through to the semi final despite defeat in the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Chelsea FC and Legia Warszawa at Stamford Bridge on April 17, 2025 in London, England. Most Successful Football Club in the World (Photo by Chelsea Football Club/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
4. Chelsea FC – 6 League Titles, 2 Champions League Titles
Chelsea has experienced notable domestic and European success during its ascent in the twenty-first century. Six league titles have been won by the Blues, including two noteworthy victories in 2004–05 and 2016–17. In addition to their European achievements, they are the only London club to have won the coveted Champions League, having done it twice in 2012 and 2021. Chelsea has established themselves as one of Europe’s top teams because to their steady performances.
Most Successful Football Club in the World: MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Erling Haaland of Manchester City looks dejected after conceding his side’s first goal which was scored by Iliman Ndiaye of Everton during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Everton FC at Etihad Stadium on December 26, 2024 in Manchester, England. Most Successful Football Club in the World (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
3. Manchester City FC – 9 League Titles, 1 Champions League Title
Manchester City’s transformation over the past decade has been nothing short of remarkable. With nine league titles, including a dominant run in recent years, City has established domestic supremacy. Their European breakthrough came in 2023 when they secured their first Champions League title, completing a historic treble. Under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, City’s tactical prowess and squad depth have been pivotal to their success.
Most Successful Football Club in the World: LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – APRIL 13: (SUN OUT, SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and West Ham United FC at Anfield on April 13, 2025 in Liverpool, England. Most Successful Football Club in the World (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
2. Liverpool FC – 19 League Titles, 6 Champions League Titles
Liverpool’s rich history is adorned with both domestic and European triumphs. Their 19 league titles reflect periods of dominance, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. On the European stage, Liverpool boasts six Champions League titles, with memorable victories in 2005 and 2019. The club’s passionate fanbase and storied legacy continue to make Anfield a fortress in world football.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 17: Harry Maguire of Manchester United celebrates the winning goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester United and Olympique Lyonnais at Old Trafford on April 17, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
1. Manchester United FC – 20 League Titles, 3 Champions League Titles
Manchester United holds the record for the most league titles in England, with 20 championships. The club’s golden era under Sir Alex Ferguson saw them clinch numerous domestic titles and three Champions League trophies in 1968, 1999, and 2008. United’s global fanbase and commercial success are testaments to their enduring legacy in football.
Madrid, Spain – April 16: Dani Ceballos of Real Madrid looks dejected during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid C.F. and Arsenal FC at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Manu Reino /DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
Defining the Most Successful Football Club in the World
Using Premier League and Champions League accomplishments to gauge performance provides a clear picture of club dominance. Real Madrid is unique because to their unmatched success in Europe, even if teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have a long history in both leagues. But when total prize hauls—including those from domestic and continental competitions—are taken into account, teams like Al Ahly stand out as the world’s top performers. The “most successful football club in the world” title ultimately depends on the criteria applied, however the clubs stated above are without a doubt the best in football.