Premier League Time-Wasting Rankings: From Quick Restarts to Clock Killers
Time-wasting has become a defining — and often frustrating — part of modern football. Every Premier League team uses it to their advantage in some form, whether to protect a lead or control the rhythm of a match. Here’s how all 20 clubs in the 2025/26 season rank based on their average delay in seconds when restarting play.
20. Wolverhampton Wanderers – 24.1 seconds
Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. are the quickest side in the league when it comes to getting the ball back into play. Their average of just 24.1 seconds reflects a direct, high-energy style of football. Even at the bottom of the table, Wolves are showing an active intent to keep matches flowing.
19. Manchester City – 25.6 seconds
Manchester City F.C. continue to favor possession and tempo, which translates to quick restarts. Averaging 25.6 seconds, Pep Guardiola’s men are among the least time-wasting teams in the division. Their controlled build-up leaves little room for clock games.
18. Nottingham Forest – 26.4 seconds
Under Ange Postecoglou, Nottingham Forest F.C. have adopted an attacking mindset, reflected in their fast restarts. They take 26.4 seconds on average to get the ball back into play. That urgency has been key to their surprising early-season form.
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17. Liverpool – 26.8 seconds
Liverpool F.C. remain a high-pressing machine under Arne Slot, and it shows in their 26.8-second restart average. Their hunger to control possession and territory leaves little time for delaying tactics. Even while chasing the title, they’re focused on keeping the game flowing.
16. Everton – 27.1 seconds
Everton F.C. have started brightly under David Moyes, combining solid structure with energy. Their 27.1-second delay shows they want to maximize playing time. It’s a clear reflection of their push for European football this season.
15. Fulham – 27.1 seconds
Marco Silva’s Fulham F.C. have endured an inconsistent start but remain among the more efficient sides. Their 27.1-second average mirrors Everton’s, suggesting a desire to stay competitive in every match. They’re not leaning on time-wasting to grind out results.
14. West Ham United – 27.4 seconds
West Ham United F.C. might be fighting for survival, but they’re not dragging the clock. With 27.4 seconds on average, Nuno Espírito Santo’s men are restarting play fairly quickly. That urgency might be key in their relegation battle.
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13. Bournemouth – 27.6 seconds
AFC Bournemouth sit mid-table in time-wasting rankings with 27.6 seconds. They combine defensive resilience with a desire to stay active in possession. It’s a balanced approach that keeps matches lively.
12. Tottenham Hotspur – 27.7 seconds
Under Thomas Frank, Tottenham Hotspur F.C. are trying to rediscover their spark. Their 27.7-second average shows they’re avoiding the dark arts. Spurs are aiming to win with football, not through clock management.
11. Brighton & Hove Albion – 28.6 seconds
Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. remain true to their progressive playing style. A 28.6-second average proves their intent to keep the game moving. Fabian Hürzeler’s men aren’t ones to waste time when the ball goes out of play.
10. Leeds United – 29.3 seconds
Leeds United F.C. are right in the middle of the pack with their 29.3-second average. Daniel Farke’s side often mixes intensity with patience when needed. It’s a reflection of their pragmatic but bold approach in the top flight.
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9. Aston Villa – 29.4 seconds
Aston Villa F.C. under Unai Emery sit just inside the top ten for time wasted. At 29.4 seconds, they’re not excessive but clearly measured. It’s a tactical rhythm designed to maintain control rather than disrupt.
8. Chelsea – 29.5 seconds
Chelsea F.C. have started strongly under Enzo Maresca, with an average delay of 29.5 seconds. They’re taking their time strategically without slowing matches too much. It reflects a calculated, possession-heavy style.
7. Newcastle United – 29.7 seconds
Newcastle United F.C., under Eddie Howe, follow closely behind Chelsea with 29.7 seconds. Their physical approach allows for natural breaks in play, which they use intelligently. They’re not the worst offenders, but not quick either.
6. Crystal Palace – 30.6 seconds
Crystal Palace F.C. are enjoying their FA Cup-winning momentum but are not in a rush to play. With a 30.6-second average, Oliver Glasner’s men use pauses tactically. Their structured approach suits their organized defensive shape.
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5. Manchester United – 31.0 seconds
Manchester United F.C. are struggling in midfield, and their numbers show it. At 31.0 seconds, they’re among the slower teams to restart play. That delay mirrors their need to reset defensively and control tempo in matches.
4. Arsenal – 31.0 seconds
Arsenal F.C. continue their title push but have leaned on time-wasting more than most. Their 31-second average reveals a willingness to slow things down when needed. It’s a tactical choice to protect leads in tight games.
3. Sunderland – 32.3 seconds
Promoted side Sunderland A.F.C. are proving tough to beat, and their 32.3-second average plays a part. Regis Le Bris’ men use game management smartly to frustrate opponents. It’s a classic underdog strategy that’s paying off early.
2. Burnley – 32.7 seconds
Burnley F.C. have been among the slowest sides to restart, averaging 32.7 seconds. Scott Parker’s team is clearly trying to take the sting out of matches. It’s a survival tactic for a newly promoted club finding its footing.
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1. Brentford – 33.5 seconds
At the top of the list are Brentford F.C. with a league-high 33.5-second delay. Keith Andrews’ side are struggling and using time-wasting to slow down games. It’s a clear example of tactical clock control to ease pressure in difficult moments.
