English football is rich with tradition, and nothing showcases that more than the rivalries that have stood the test of time. From regional derbies to titanic top-of-the-table clashes, the most-played fixtures in league history are packed with drama, heritage, and unforgettable moments. Here we take a look at the 11 most contested matchups in English top-flight history, ranked from fewest to most games played.
11. Liverpool vs Manchester United – 69 Wins / 53 Draws / 62 Losses
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A symbol of northern rivalry, Liverpool and Manchester United’s 184 meetings reflect both cultural and sporting competition. With both clubs amassing over 20 league titles between them, their encounters are always charged with emotion and national attention.
10. Everton vs Manchester City – 62 Wins / 46 Draws / 76 Losses
Despite City’s recent dominance, this fixture dates back to 1899 and totals 184 games. Their rivalry has been more historical than heated, with both clubs rising and falling at different times in English football’s evolution.
Having met 186 times, Arsenal and Aston Villa may not be fierce rivals, but their long-standing presence in the top flight has made this a fixture full of prestige. Memorable goals and transfers between the clubs have added flavor to this historic pairing.
This clash of northern giants has occurred 192 times in the league. While not a rivalry in the truest sense, Everton and United’s mutual dislike of Liverpool and shared legacy has forged many classic encounters.
7. Aston Villa vs Liverpool – 56 Wins / 43 Draws / 95 Losses
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With 194 games played, Liverpool has had the upper hand over Villa, though matches between the two have often proven surprising. Villa’s 7-2 win in 2020 stands as one of the most shocking results in recent Premier League history.
6. Arsenal vs Manchester City – 89 Wins / 46 Draws / 59 Losses
Also standing at 194 meetings, this fixture has exploded in relevance since City’s 2008 transformation. Arsenal’s historic success meets City’s modern dominance, making every recent clash a battle for silverware and bragging rights.
5. Arsenal vs Liverpool – 67 Wins / 56 Draws / 79 Losses
Having met 202 times, Arsenal and Liverpool have delivered some of English football’s most iconic moments. Their legendary 1989 finale at Anfield remains one of the greatest league matches ever played.
A stalwart of English football, this fixture has been played 208 times. Arsenal’s dominance is clear, but Everton’s long tenure in the top flight has ensured many intense battles over the decades.
3. Everton vs Liverpool – 59 Wins / 70 Draws / 83 Losses
The Merseyside Derby, contested 212 times, is one of football’s fiercest rivalries. Born from a boardroom split, it has become an emotional cauldron of pride, local identity, and bitter competition.
2. Arsenal vs Manchester United – 77 Wins / 50 Draws / 85 Losses
Another 212-match classic, Arsenal vs Manchester United defined an era of English football, especially during the late 90s and early 2000s. It’s a fixture steeped in animosity, glory, and unforgettable flashpoints.
1. Everton vs Aston Villa – 82 Wins / 56 Draws / 76 Losses
With 214 games, this is the most-played fixture in English league history. As two of the Football League’s founding members, Everton and Aston Villa’s rivalry is a cornerstone of the English game, marked by deep tradition and competitive balance.
