The 15 biggest clubs in British football history – ranked from legacy to legends

November 4, 2025 Kris Isaksen

From storied giants to historic underdogs, British football has produced clubs with remarkable success and unshakable fanbases. In this breakdown, we count down the 15 biggest clubs in British football history, starting from number 15 and working our way up to the most iconic of them all.

15. Wolverhampton Wanderers – faded glory, enduring pride

Once a dominant force between the 1950s and 70s, Wolves have a rich cup-winning past. Though they haven’t lifted major silverware since 1980, their history includes three league titles and ten domestic trophies.

14. Sunderland – league legends turned comeback kings

Sunderland once ruled the early English game with six league championships, most before World War II. After years in the lower divisions, they’ve returned to the Premier League and are looking to build on a proud legacy.

13. Newcastle United – historic club with modern ambition

Newcastle enjoyed success in the early 20th century, winning four league titles and six FA Cups. Their 2025 League Cup triumph ended a 70-year wait, reigniting hopes for a brighter era on Tyneside.

12. West Ham United – cups, culture and comeback moments

With three FA Cups and two European trophies, West Ham’s identity is rooted in historic cup runs and iconic players. Their 2023 Europa Conference League win revived their reputation on the continental stage.

11. Leeds United – fierce rivalries and forgotten glories

Leeds shone brightest in the 60s and 70s, winning three league titles and four cups. After decades in the wilderness, their recent return to the Premier League signals a club determined to reclaim relevance.

10. Rangers – historic dominance and a dramatic rebirth

Rangers have claimed a record 55 Scottish league titles and 63 domestic cups. After a financial collapse in 2012, their return to the top and continued success underlines their remarkable resilience.

9. Tottenham Hotspur – flair, frustration and finally silverware

Spurs built their name on cup success, including eight FA Cups and multiple European honours. Their Europa League win in 2025 ended a 17-year trophy drought and reminded fans of their pedigree.

8. Celtic – consistent winners with continental history

Celtic have never been relegated from Scotland’s top flight and have 54 league titles to show for it. Add in a European Cup and 63 domestic trophies, and the Bhoys remain a dominant force north of the border.

7. Everton – history-rich, future uncertain

Everton have won nine league titles and a European trophy, making them one of England’s most decorated clubs. Though they’ve struggled in recent decades, their new stadium and loyal fanbase offer hope.

6. Aston Villa – giants of old back on the rise

Villa’s glory days include seven league titles and a famous European Cup win in 1982. With Champions League qualification in 2025, they’re finally showing signs of a return to elite status.

5. Chelsea – Europe’s most successful London club

Chelsea’s modern success exploded under Roman Abramovich, winning everything from the Premier League to the Champions League. With nine European trophies and 17 domestic cups, their transformation is one of football’s most dramatic.

4. Manchester City – a modern dynasty built on brilliance

Since Sheikh Mansour’s takeover, City have redefined dominance, winning eight league titles and a Champions League. Their current era under Pep Guardiola has set new standards in British football.

3. Arsenal – tradition, trophies and the invincibles

With 13 league titles and a record 14 FA Cups, Arsenal’s domestic dominance is well-established. While a league title has eluded them since 2004, they remain one of the most iconic clubs in the country.

2. Liverpool – European pedigree and domestic power

Liverpool FC — Photo: Milosz Kubiak / Shutterstock.com

Liverpool have lifted 14 European trophies, including six Champions Leagues, and boast 19 English titles. Their legendary comebacks and Anfield atmosphere cement their place in football folklore.

1. Manchester United – the benchmark for British success

United lead the way with 20 league titles, 13 FA Cups, and three European crowns. The club’s golden age under Sir Alex Ferguson defined an era, and their legacy as Britain’s biggest club remains untouchable.