As the most popular sport in the world and one of the earliest activities that managed to capture the attention and awe of fans around the modern world, football is something that transcends hobbies and pastimes. Reaching far corners of the world and not needing much to play it, the beautiful game continues to change, grow, and bring joy to the fans. Being the most played and widespread game on the planet also comes with one caveat that other sports can never replicate: the number of popular clubs. From east to west, north to south, across countries and numerous tiers of competition, multiple football clubs are considered successful. But which ones are the most successful, i.e., the best? How is this calculated, and can there ever be one most successful club?
It is a difficult question to answer because different experts, players, and fans have different means of concluding who the best is. Is it truly only about the trophies? Because there are teams that many have not heard of, which have more fans than FC Barcelona or Real Madrid, or any English Premier League club. Does that mean they are better? Since it matters where they play, how big they are financially, and what legacy they have in the sport, it is not always enough to count the silverware in the trophy case. It is a great measuring tool, but not the definitive one. We attempt to answer the question here and now. These will also be the ones that you should include in your bets on Stake online casino and sportsbook, since these clubs are usually the favorites to win it all.
Real Madrid
Known as “Los Blancos,” it is said to be the most decorated football club in history. Well, at least in the most competitive part of the football world. Based in Spain’s capital, they play at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a historic arena renowned for its passionate atmosphere and continual modernization. Real Madrid boasts a record 15 UEFA Champions League titles, 36 La Liga championships, 20 Copa del Reys, and numerous domestic and international trophies, including multiple FIFA Club World Cups and UEFA Super Cups. The club is famous for its several “Galácticos” eras when they were signing superstars like Zinedine Zidane, Luís Figo, Ronaldo Nazário, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who is the club’s all time leading scorer. Founded in 1902, Real Madrid symbolizes prestige, success, and flair, with a winning culture built on legendary players, tactical innovation, and an unrelenting quest for European dominance. They are always relevant, always the favorite, and never one to underestimate or hope to take on easily.
Barcelona
Madrid’s biggest rival, which is also the biggest football rivalry, epitomized in the yearly El Clásicos, is FC Barcelona. Barça is more than a football club, as their slogan Mes que un Club says. It is a symbol of Catalan pride and a global footballing philosophy. Their home, Camp Nou, seats over 105,000 spectators, making it one of Europe’s largest stadiums. Barcelona has won 28 La Liga titles, 5 UEFA Champions League trophies, and a record 32 Copa del Reys. Their trophy cabinet also includes numerous other domestic, European, and World Cups, for a tally of well over 100 major trophies. The club is famed for its possession based “tiki-taka” style developed under Johan Cruyff and refined by Pep Guardiola. Icons such as Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernández, and Andrés Iniesta, products of La Masia academy, have mesmerized fans worldwide. Barcelona’s identity is deeply connected to its cultural roots, political symbolism, and a commitment to attacking, beautiful football. They, too, are always relevant and dangerous, no matter the era or their starting XI. Make a soccer bet on them this season as they are poised to win several trophies.
Liverpool
Liverpool FC is England’s most successful club in European competition, with 6 UEFA Champions League titles, 20 English First Division/Premier League championships, and dozens of domestic and European cups. Based at the historic Anfield Stadium, Liverpool’s fan base is famous for its passionate support, best exemplified by the anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” The club’s identity is grounded in resilience, community, and a never back down spirit. Legendary players like Kenny Dalglish, Steven Gerrard, and Ian Rush have contributed to Liverpool’s rich heritage. The dramatic 2005 Champions League win in Istanbul is among football’s greatest moments. Under manager Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool reclaimed English league glory in 2020 after 30 years, combining tactical brilliance with high intensity pressing football. Their current star, Mohammed Salah, leads them in a new era of winning trophies regularly.
Manchester United
Although they have been struggling mightily in the last decade, Manchester United is still one of the most successful clubs historically. Based at Old Trafford, also known as the “Theatre of Dreams”, they are England’s most decorated club with 20 English league titles, 3 UEFA Champions League trophies, 21 Community Shields, 13 FA cups, and many other cups. Founded in 1878, the Red Devils rose to global prominence under Sir Alex Ferguson, who guided the team to a historic treble in 1999 (Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League). Known for its attacking football and the famous “Class of ’92,” which produced stars like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, United’s identity blends tradition with modern success. Legendary figures include George Best, Eric Cantona, and Cristiano Ronaldo. The club’s global fanbase and commercial power make it one of football’s biggest brands. The legacy of thrilling football and trophy success still shines bright in this tumultuous period.
Manchester City
Manchester City’s rise from underdog to powerhouse is one of football’s most remarkable stories. Being in the shadow of their city rivals, they managed to rise and challenge their legacy. Their rise coincided with United’s downfall, as the sky blue team now rules Manchester. Playing at the modern Etihad Stadium, City has won 10 English league titles, including an unprecedented 100 point Premier League season in 2017-18. Their 2023 UEFA Champions League victory marked a landmark moment, securing the club’s first ever European crown, which was followed by the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. They also have 7 FA Cups, 8 EFL Cups, and 7 Community Shields. Under Pep Guardiola, Man City became synonymous with fluid, attacking football and tactical innovation. Stars like Sergio Agüero, Kevin De Bruyne, and Erling Haaland have lit up the Etihad in the last decade. Backed by significant investment, City’s identity is now rooted in ambition, technical brilliance, and relentless pursuit of domestic and European glory.
Chelsea
Chelsea has recently won a special award for being the only club in the world to win everything they can. This is usually said for the best clubs that only sweep the highest tiers of trophies, but Chelsea has done so on multiple levels. Based at Stamford Bridge in London, the team emerged as one of England’s most successful clubs in recent decades. They have won 6 Premier League titles, 2 UEFA Champions League trophies (2012 and 2021), 2 UEFA Europa Leagues, 1 UEFA Conference League, 2 UEFA Super Cups, and 2 FIFA Club World Cups. They also have 2 Second Division titles, 8 FA Cups, 5 EFL Cups, and 4 Community Shields. Their success accelerated under Roman Abramovich’s ownership starting in 2003, with stars like Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard, Jason Terry, and Eden Hazard. Chelsea is known for its resilience, tactical flexibility, and big game performances. The club has it all, from determination and power to a winning mentality that has made them regular contenders domestically and in Europe. Even when they seem to be struggling, they come back and win a major trophy.
Inter Milan
Inter Milan, or Internazionale, is one of Italy’s most successful clubs, playing at the iconic San Siro stadium shared with rivals AC Milan. Inter has won 20 Serie A titles, 9 Coppa Italia trophies, 8 Supercoppa Italiana, and 3 UEFA Champions League titles, including a historic treble in 2010 under José Mourinho. Known as the Nerazzurri due to their black and blue stripes, Inter’s identity is forged through defensive solidity and tactical discipline combined with moments of attacking flair. Their legends like Giuseppe Meazza, Javier Zanetti, and Ronaldo Nazário remain some of the best club footballers ever. The club is a symbol of Italian football excellence with passionate support and a rich history, a team that is ever present at the top of the table and aiming for the Scudetto.
AC Milan
Inter’s direct archrival and nemesis, AC Milan, boasts one of the most illustrious histories in football, with 19 Serie A titles and 7 UEFA Champions League trophies, making them the second most successful club in Europe by Champions League wins. They also have 2 Serie B titles, 5 Coppa Italia, 8 Supercoppa Italiana, 5 UEFA Super Cups, and 1 FIFA Club World Cup. Their iconic red and black stripes symbolize power and tradition, with San Siro Stadium serving as a fortress. Milan’s identity is tied to elegance, technical mastery, and strong defensive foundations. Legendary players such as Paolo Maldini, Franco Baresi, Marco van Basten, and Kaka have contributed to their storied past. Their success peaked during the late 1980s and early 2000s, cementing Milan as a global football powerhouse. While modern day titles are rare, they always aim for the shiniest silverware and are a worthy opponent.
Juventus
Juventus is Italy’s most decorated club. It is affectionately known as “La Vecchia Signora” (The Old Lady). Based in Turin, they play at the Allianz Stadium and have won a record 36 Serie A titles. Juventus also has a record 15 Coppa Italia trophies and 2 UEFA Champions League titles, alongside numerous UEFA and domestic Super Cups. The identity of the Bianconeri is built on a combination of defensive strength and tactical discipline, with historic stars like Alessandro Del Piero, Michel Platini, and Gianluigi Buffon defining their success. The club is also known for its ability to adapt and rebuild, consistently challenging for titles and nurturing top talent. Although they had dry spells and some rather challenging years, the club is consistently competitive.
Paris Saint-Germain
By far the most popular and successful French Ligue 1 club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has rapidly risen to prominence in French and European football since its founding in 1970. Although a rather new club compared to the rest of the list, they boast a significant trophy case display. Playing at the Parc des Princes, PSG has dominated Ligue 1 with a record 13 league titles, a record 16 Coupe de France, a record 9 Coupe de la Ligue, and a record 13 Trophee des Champions. A sweep of records in the French domestic top flight. Their crowning achievement came with a UEFA Champions League win in 2025 under Luis Enrique, a historic treble. Known for their glamorous image and attacking prowess, PSG has attracted stars like Neymar Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi. The club’s identity combines Parisian flair with ambitious investment aimed at establishing long term European dominance.
Bayern Munich
Bayern is Germany’s most successful club by far. They have 34 Bundesliga titles, 20 DFB Pokal titles, 11 Supercups, and 6 Ligapokals, all records in German football. On the European stage, they have won 6 UEFA Champions League trophies and have plenty of Super Cups and World Cups, too. They play at the iconic Allianz Arena in Munich, one of Europe’s most popular grounds. Bayern’s identity is built on consistency, dominance, and a winning mentality. Their trophy cabinet is legendary, and some of the biggest stars helped put them there. Legendary players such as Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, Thomas Müller, and Robert Lewandowski have contributed to their success. Bayern’s style combines disciplined, tactically impeccable German efficiency with attacking power, a combination that makes them a perennial favorite in Europe and a symbol of German football pride.
Benfica
Benfica is Portugal’s most successful club. They play at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon and have won a record 38 Primeira Liga titles and a record 26 Portuguese Cups, alongside a record 8 Taca da Liga. Benfica also won the European Cup twice back to back in 1961 and 1962 during the golden era of Eusébio, one of football’s all time greats. The club is known for its passionate fanbase and excellent youth academy, which has produced stars like João Félix and Bernardo Silva. Benfica’s identity centers on attacking football and national pride, making them a beacon of Portuguese football tradition and success. They are consistently present in the UEFA Champions League, where they usually make it out of the group stage. Porto is their biggest rival domestically.
