The world’s top football leagues ranked: from 15 to 1
In the ever-evolving landscape of global football, some leagues thrive while others fade. From the historic decline of Dutch football to the unmatched dominance of the Premier League, here’s how the top 15 football leagues stack up in 2025. Ranked from 15th to 1st, each league’s story reflects its current strength, historical success, and star power.
15. dutch eredivisie
Once a powerhouse of European football, the Eredivisie has dropped to 15th in global rankings. Ajax, along with PSV and Feyenoord, still dominate domestically, but the league has lost its competitive edge on the continental stage.
14. turkish super lig
The Super Lig features thrilling clashes between Istanbul’s big three: Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas. Galatasaray lead the title race historically with 25 wins, including the last three consecutive seasons.
13. polish ekstraklasa
Poland’s Ekstraklasa has surged in recent rankings, climbing from 30th to 13th. Legia Warsaw top the all-time table with 15 titles, while Lech Poznan and others have begun to re-establish the league’s reputation.
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12. danish superligaen
Founded in 1991, Denmark’s Superligaen has become one of the more structured leagues in Europe. FC Copenhagen dominate with 16 league titles, and the league’s playoff format adds a unique twist to the competition.
11. liga profesional argentina
With over 100 years of history, Argentina’s top division features legendary clubs like River Plate and Boca Juniors. River lead the title count with 38 championships, closely followed by Boca’s 35.
10. major league soccer
MLS has reached the top 10, boosted by Lionel Messi’s arrival and a growing international profile. Divided into two conferences, the league is led in all-time titles by LA Galaxy, with six MLS Cups.
9. portuguese primeira liga
The Primeira Liga is home to Portugal’s “Big Three”: Benfica, Porto and Sporting Lisbon. Only two clubs outside of this trio have ever won the title, underlining the historical dominance of these giants.
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8. brazilian serie a
Brazil’s top flight remains the strongest league outside of Europe. Neymar’s return to Santos and a wave of emerging stars have helped revitalise a league led historically by Palmeiras, with 12 titles.
7. belgian pro league
With over a century of competition, the Belgian Pro League ranks seventh. Anderlecht are the most decorated side with 34 titles, while Club Brugge and Union Saint-Gilloise continue to challenge.
6. english football league championship
England’s second division stands out as the world’s strongest below-top-tier league. Leicester City’s recent success and a fierce competitive structure make the Championship uniquely intense and unpredictable.
5. french ligue 1
Led by Paris Saint-Germain, who recently won their first Champions League title, Ligue 1 has become a major force. PSG now boast 13 domestic titles, eclipsing historic rivals like Marseille and Lyon.
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4. italian serie a
Despite Juventus’ recent dip, Serie A remains elite, with Napoli, Inter and AC Milan all thriving. Juve hold a record 36 titles, though Napoli are the reigning champions after a stellar 2025 season.
3. german bundesliga
Germany’s Bundesliga consistently produces top-quality football, anchored by Bayern Munich’s dominance. With 33 league titles, Bayern are far ahead of their rivals, but Dortmund and Leipzig remain competitive.
2. la liga
La Liga remains one of the most prestigious leagues globally, headlined by Real Madrid and Barcelona. The two giants have won a combined 64 titles, with Atletico Madrid providing strong competition.
1. english premier league
The Premier League reigns supreme, thanks to its depth, global stars, and financial power. With clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool dominating Europe, it’s no surprise England’s top flight tops the global rankings.
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