The Greatest Season Starts in European Football History
From England to Germany, Italy, and France — some football seasons begin with such dominance that they become legendary. Across Europe’s top leagues, only a handful of teams have managed near-perfect starts after 13 matches. These runs aren’t just about wins; they tell stories of tactical brilliance, unstoppable attacks, and unforgettable momentum.
Below, we take a look at the most remarkable season starts ever seen in European football — ranked from Newcastle’s thrilling Premier League charge to Bayern Munich’s current, record-breaking perfection.
10. Newcastle United (1995/96)
Kevin Keegan’s “Entertainers” made Premier League history with one of the most thrilling starts ever. With 12 wins from their first 13 games, Newcastle played fearless, attacking football that captured the hearts of fans across England. Their run symbolized pure joy in the game, even if the title ultimately slipped away.
9. FC Bayern Munich (2020/21)
Fresh off their Champions League triumph, Bayern maintained their dominance with 12 victories early in the 2020/21 season. Hansi Flick’s team continued their relentless style, blending high pressing with clinical finishing led by Robert Lewandowski. Their consistency kept them at the top of European football.
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8. FC Bayern Munich (2015/16)
Under Pep Guardiola, Bayern combined possession mastery with ruthless efficiency. The 2015/16 squad won 12 of their first 13 matches, showcasing Guardiola’s tactical brilliance. The team’s structure and movement overwhelmed opponents both domestically and in Europe.
7. Bayer Leverkusen (2023/24)
Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen became one of the biggest surprises in recent history. With 12 wins from 13 matches, the team’s balance between tactical control and attacking flair stunned the Bundesliga. Their unbeaten streak set the stage for a season to remember.
6. Manchester City (2017/18)
Pep Guardiola’s revolution in England truly took off this year. City’s 12 victories in the opening stretch set the tone for their record-breaking 100-point Premier League season. The football was fluid, fast, and nearly unstoppable — a blueprint for modern dominance.
5. Paris Saint-Germain (2017/18)
PSG began the season in devastating form, powered by Neymar and Mbappé’s arrival. Their 12 early wins highlighted their attacking firepower, with goals flowing freely in Ligue 1 and Europe. This campaign marked the birth of a new era of Parisian ambition.
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4. Real Madrid (1928/29)
Nearly a century ago, Real Madrid laid the foundation for greatness. Their start to the 1928/29 season, with 12 wins and a +38 goal difference, was extraordinary for its time. It was an early sign of the winning DNA that would define the club’s legacy.
3. Paris Saint-Germain (2018/19)
Under Thomas Tuchel, PSG’s explosive 2018/19 start — 12 wins and a +39 goal difference — was breathtaking. Neymar, Mbappé, and Cavani were unstoppable, producing a wave of dominance rarely seen in French football. Their attacking trio rewrote records week after week.
2. AC Milan (1992/93)
Arrigo Sacchi’s and Fabio Capello’s Milan side epitomized tactical perfection. The Rossoneri won all 13 of their first games, controlling matches through discipline, structure, and elegance. This iconic team remains a benchmark in Italian football history.
1. FC Bayern Munich (2025/26)
Bayern’s 2025/26 campaign has redefined the meaning of a perfect start. With 13 wins in 13 matches and a +38 goal difference, they’ve achieved something never seen before in Europe’s top leagues. Harry Kane’s leadership and Bayern’s balance across the pitch have produced a near-flawless beginning to the season.
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