The 100 best Football Clubs in the World – Ranked by Opta
The global football landscape in 2025 is more competitive than ever, with clubs from every corner of the world fighting for recognition. This ranking highlights the top 100 teams, reflecting their performances, consistency, and influence on the game. Starting from number 100, we move upward through the list until we reach the very best.
100. Seattle Sounders – 83.9
The Seattle Sounders continue to be the standard-bearers for Major League Soccer with strong domestic campaigns. Their passionate fanbase and recent successes keep them among the world’s elite clubs.
99. Getafe – 84.0
Getafe remain a resilient La Liga side, often frustrating bigger opponents with their compact style. They have carved out a reputation for discipline and tactical discipline in Spain’s top flight.
98. Anderlecht – 84.1
Belgium’s most decorated club maintains its presence among Europe’s strong competitors. Anderlecht’s focus on developing young talent keeps them relevant in continental football.
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97. Espanyol – 84.1
Espanyol continue to shine as Barcelona’s city rivals, combining tradition with resilience. Their ability to compete consistently in La Liga ensures they hold their place in the rankings.
96. Sheffield United – 84.2
Sheffield United have bounced back to remain competitive in English football. Their fighting spirit and loyal fanbase drive their progress in the Premier League.
95. Orlando City – 84.2
Orlando City represent one of MLS’s most exciting projects with a mix of flair and investment. Their rapid development has secured them a place among the world’s 100 best clubs.
94. Columbus Crew – 84.2
Columbus Crew, one of MLS’s historic teams, continue to grow in stature. With recent domestic titles, they remain a cornerstone of American soccer.
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93. AZ – 84.3
AZ Alkmaar are one of the Netherlands’ most consistent performers, blending young talent with tactical intelligence. Their presence in European competitions has reinforced their reputation.
92. Alavés – 84.3
Deportivo Alavés may not be one of Spain’s giants, but their resilience ensures regular survival. Their determination keeps them a respected competitor in La Liga.
91. Botafogo – 84.3
Botafogo are experiencing a resurgence in Brazilian football, with passionate support behind them. Their mix of tradition and recent ambition has restored their competitive edge.
90. Wolfsburg – 84.4
Wolfsburg remain a steady force in the Bundesliga, with a strong youth system and European ambitions. Their past successes still resonate, keeping them among Germany’s top clubs.
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89. Toluca – 84.4
Toluca are one of Mexico’s most historic clubs with a rich winning culture. Their presence in Liga MX continues to make them one of Latin America’s strongest institutions.
88. Genoa – 84.6
Italy’s oldest club continues to thrive in Serie A with a blend of tradition and modern progress. Genoa’s passionate support keeps them a fixture in Italian football.
87. Inter Miami – 84.7
Inter Miami have quickly risen in global recognition thanks to superstar signings. Their rapid progress shows the growing power of MLS on the international stage.
86. Dinamo Zagreb – 85.0
Dinamo Zagreb remain Croatia’s dominant force, consistently producing top-class talent. Their regular Champions League presence strengthens their place in European football.
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85. Como – 85.1
Como have become one of Italy’s rising clubs, drawing attention with their ambitious project. Their growing investment makes them a team to watch in Serie A.
84. Toulouse – 85.2
Toulouse continue to impress in French football with consistent performances. Their balance of youth and experience secures them a place in Europe’s wider conversation.
83. Torino – 85.2
Torino’s legacy and history ensure they remain one of Italy’s proudest institutions. While often overshadowed by Juventus, they continue to fight competitively in Serie A.
82. Celta de Vigo – 85.3
Celta de Vigo are known for their attractive football and producing creative players. Their resilience has kept them firmly within La Liga’s competitive field.
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81. Bodø/Glimt – 85.3
Bodø/Glimt have become one of Europe’s biggest surprise packages, dominating Norwegian football. Their attacking style has earned them admiration across the continent.
80. Valencia – 85.3
Valencia’s history and stature keep them among Spain’s best, even through turbulent times. Their passionate supporters and iconic stadium make them a global name.
79. Al Hilal – 85.4
Al Hilal remain Asia’s most successful club, with both domestic and continental triumphs. Their investment in world-class talent has made them competitive globally.
78. Genk – 85.4
Genk’s strength lies in their exceptional youth development, consistently producing top players. Their role in Belgian and European football remains highly respected.
77. Crvena Zvezda – 85.4
The Serbian giants continue to dominate their domestic league while making European appearances. Their passionate fanbase remains one of the most iconic in football.
76. Werder Bremen – 85.5
Werder Bremen are back in the Bundesliga mix, known for tradition and loyal support. Their rebuilding efforts have restored their position among Europe’s respected clubs.
75. Ajax – 85.6
Ajax remain one of Europe’s great talent factories, consistently developing world-class players. Their attacking style and philosophy ensure they always stay relevant in European football.
74. Rayo Vallecano – 85.6
Rayo Vallecano are admired for their fearless approach despite being one of La Liga’s smaller clubs. Their community-driven spirit and attacking football make them a neutral fan favorite.
73. River Plate – 85.6
River Plate remain giants of South American football, blending history with consistent success. Their ability to produce talent and compete internationally secures their reputation worldwide.
72. Rennes – 85.6
Rennes have emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most consistent teams in recent years. Their youth academy and disciplined structure keep them competitive against France’s elite.
71. Brest – 85.7
Brest continue to impress in French football with steady progress. Their rise in Ligue 1 showcases strong management and tactical resilience.
70. Freiburg – 85.8
Freiburg are a model of stability in the Bundesliga, performing above expectations. Their smart coaching and talent development make them a tough opponent for any club.
69. Real Sociedad – 85.8
Real Sociedad remain one of La Liga’s most admired sides with a balance of style and substance. Their European campaigns add to their growing reputation across the continent.
68. København – 85.8
FC København dominate Danish football and maintain regular European appearances. Their structured approach and consistency keep them at the forefront of Nordic football.
67. Sunderland – 85.8
Sunderland’s revival story has captured English football’s attention. Their passionate fanbase and resurgence make them a remarkable comeback story.
66. Lens – 85.8
RC Lens continue to establish themselves as a powerful force in Ligue 1. Their passionate support and recent form make them one of France’s most exciting clubs.
65. Pafos – 86.0
Cypriot club Pafos have risen quickly thanks to investment and smart recruitment. Their progress has put them on the European football map.
64. Nice – 86.2
OGC Nice combine ambition with tradition, consistently fighting for European places in Ligue 1. Their potential for growth makes them one of France’s clubs to watch.
63. Osasuna – 86.4
Osasuna remain a steady competitor in La Liga, known for their discipline and work ethic. Their ability to challenge bigger clubs keeps them respected.
62. Palmeiras – 86.8
Palmeiras are one of Brazil’s greatest clubs, continuing to dominate domestically and continentally. Their tradition and talent development place them firmly among global elites.
61. Mainz 05 – 86.8
Mainz 05 are a Bundesliga club known for resilience and tactical flexibility. Their consistent survival among Germany’s elite showcases their stability.
60. Sporting Braga – 86.8
Braga have cemented themselves as Portugal’s fourth power behind the traditional giants. Their European consistency makes them one of the continent’s underrated clubs.
59. Burnley – 86.8
Burnley’s disciplined approach and tactical evolution have kept them relevant in English football. Their recent progress highlights their ability to adapt and grow.
58. Slavia Praha – 87.1
Slavia Praha remain the Czech Republic’s leading club, combining history with European recognition. Their strong performances ensure they stay competitive beyond domestic football.
57. Celtic – 87.1
Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football continues to be unmatched. Their passionate supporters and European pedigree keep them in the global spotlight.
56. Strasbourg – 87.2
Strasbourg’s rise in Ligue 1 showcases their resilience and ambition. They remain one of France’s clubs on the rise with exciting potential.
55. Olympiakos Piraeus – 87.3
Olympiakos dominate Greek football with consistent domestic titles. Their European experience keeps them among the continent’s respected names.
54. Fenerbahçe – 87.5
Fenerbahçe are one of Turkey’s proudest clubs, with a passionate following and ambitious goals. Their investment in quality players ensures they remain competitive.
53. Leeds United – 87.5
Leeds United have re-established themselves in English football, blending tradition with ambition. Their loyal fanbase continues to drive their progress.
52. Flamengo – 87.5
Flamengo stand as one of Brazil’s most successful and popular clubs. Their continental triumphs have solidified their status as South American giants.
51. Real Betis – 87.6
Real Betis combine attractive football with passionate support, making them a La Liga favorite. Their consistency has made them one of Spain’s most respected clubs.
50. RB Leipzig – 87.7
RB Leipzig remain one of Germany’s most ambitious clubs, built on modern infrastructure and strong recruitment. Their rapid rise in the Bundesliga and Champions League has earned them global respect.
49. Porto – 87.7
FC Porto continue to uphold Portugal’s proud football tradition, combining domestic dominance with European pedigree. Their history of developing stars keeps them highly influential.
48. Stuttgart – 87.8
VfB Stuttgart have re-established themselves as a competitive Bundesliga club. Their mix of tradition and recent resurgence makes them a strong presence in German football.
47. Feyenoord – 88.3
Feyenoord are one of the Netherlands’ proudest clubs, blending history with modern success. Their passionate fanbase and European ambitions keep them highly competitive.
46. Fiorentina – 88.6
Fiorentina remain a respected force in Serie A, balancing youth development with ambition. Their iconic purple identity and consistent growth keep them relevant in Italian football.
45. Olympique Marseille – 88.7
Marseille’s history and fiery support make them one of France’s most iconic clubs. Their constant fight to challenge PSG underlines their importance to Ligue 1.
44. Eintracht Frankfurt – 88.8
Eintracht Frankfurt have built a reputation as a strong European competitor in recent years. Their passionate support and tactical strength have brought consistent success.
43. Wolverhampton Wanderers – 88.9
Wolves continue to solidify their place in English football with tactical organization. Their ability to compete against top Premier League sides highlights their resilience.
42. Bologna – 89.0
Bologna have become one of Serie A’s most improved sides, consistently performing above expectations. Their structured play and emerging talents make them exciting to watch.
41. West Ham United – 89.0
West Ham have cemented themselves as one of England’s top sides in recent years. Their European triumphs and steady domestic growth underline their progress.
40. Galatasaray – 89.1
Galatasaray dominate Turkish football with passionate support and ambitious investments. Their European experience ensures they remain a respected global club.
39. Lazio – 89.6
Lazio remain a constant challenger in Serie A, often pushing Italy’s giants. Their passionate fans and strong squads keep them at the heart of Italian football.
38. Olympique Lyonnais – 89.7
Lyon continue to shine with their emphasis on youth development and attacking football. Their rich history ensures they stay among France’s most respected teams.
37. Athletic Club – 89.8
Athletic Club remain unique with their Basque-only policy, making them one of football’s most admired clubs. Their consistent competitiveness adds to their historic status.
36. Monaco – 89.8
Monaco are well known for producing world-class talent and competing in Europe. Their ability to combine ambition with smart recruitment keeps them a top club in France.
35. Lille – 90.1
Lille are respected across Europe for their balance of tactical discipline and player development. Their Ligue 1 triumphs and consistency underline their quality.
34. Villarreal – 90.2
The “Yellow Submarine” continue to make waves in both La Liga and Europe. Villarreal’s tactical structure and European success have strengthened their reputation.
33. Milan – 90.6
AC Milan remain one of Italy’s giants, blending tradition with recent resurgence. Their success in Serie A and European competitions highlights their return to prominence.
32. Union Saint-Gilloise – 90.6
Union SG have emerged as one of Belgium’s most surprising forces, competing at the highest level. Their rise shows the growing competitiveness of Belgian football.
31. Juventus – 90.7
Juventus remain Italy’s most successful club, carrying a rich history of dominance. Their rebuilding phase continues, but their global stature remains strong.
30. Everton – 90.9
Everton’s long-standing tradition and loyal support make them one of England’s historic clubs. Despite ups and downs, their determination ensures they remain a fixture in the Premier League.
29. Fulham – 91.0
Fulham have solidified their place in the Premier League with attractive football. Their balanced squad and ambitious approach keep them competitive at the highest level.
28. Manchester United – 91.3
Manchester United’s global reputation ensures they remain one of the biggest names in football. While rebuilding continues, their brand and history keep them among the elite.
27. Roma – 91.4
AS Roma are a consistent force in Serie A, backed by a passionate fanbase. Their European ambitions and steady domestic results highlight their resilience.
26. PSV – 91.4
PSV Eindhoven remain one of the Netherlands’ premier clubs, combining history with consistent performances. Their attacking style and youth development ensure lasting relevance.
25. Tottenham Hotspur – 91.5
Tottenham continue to fight for success in both the Premier League and Europe. Their modern stadium and strong squad make them one of England’s most ambitious clubs.
24. Brentford – 91.6
Brentford have become one of the Premier League’s most impressive stories. Their innovative approach and fearless style keep them punching above their weight.
23. Club Brugge – 91.7
Club Brugge remain Belgium’s leading side, regularly competing in European competitions. Their consistency makes them a respected name beyond their domestic league.
22. Atalanta – 91.9
Atalanta continue to dazzle Serie A with attacking football and tactical brilliance. Their ability to challenge bigger clubs makes them one of Europe’s most admired teams.
21. Borussia Dortmund – 92.0
Borussia Dortmund remain Germany’s most exciting club for youth development and attacking flair. Their passionate “Yellow Wall” fanbase makes them iconic worldwide.
20. Sporting CP – 92.1
Sporting Lisbon are one of Portugal’s great clubs, with a history of producing elite talent. Their recent success domestically keeps them a key European competitor.
19. Bayer Leverkusen – 92.1
Leverkusen are among Germany’s most consistent sides, known for modern attacking football. Their ability to stay competitive in the Bundesliga ensures long-term respect.
18. Napoli – 92.1
Napoli remain a powerhouse in Serie A, with their attacking style and passionate fans driving them forward. Their resurgence has restored them among Europe’s top clubs.
17. AFC Bournemouth – 92.1
Bournemouth’s rise in English football has been remarkable, cementing their Premier League place. Their steady progress and tactical structure keep them highly competitive.
16. Atlético de Madrid – 92.2
Atlético Madrid continue to thrive under their intense style of play. Their reputation as one of Europe’s toughest clubs makes them perennial contenders.
15. Nottingham Forest – 92.4
Nottingham Forest’s revival has been one of football’s greatest comeback stories. Their history and recent resurgence keep them firmly among the Premier League’s elite.
14. Benfica – 93.2
Benfica’s dominance in Portuguese football continues with consistency and tradition. Their ability to produce top players makes them globally respected.
13. Brighton & Hove Albion – 93.5
Brighton have risen dramatically with their innovative approach and attacking philosophy. Their success in both domestic and European football makes them one of England’s most exciting clubs.
12. Crystal Palace – 94.6
Crystal Palace’s rise has been extraordinary, cementing themselves as a Premier League powerhouse. Their mix of youth and experience has lifted them to new heights.
11. Internazionale – 94.9
Inter Milan remain one of Italy’s most historic and successful clubs. Their balance of tradition and recent success ensures they are among Europe’s top challengers.
10. Aston Villa – 95.4
Aston Villa have made a remarkable climb back to the top tier of world football. With European success and strong Premier League form, they have reestablished themselves as one of England’s greatest clubs.
9. Bayern München – 95.5
Bayern remain Germany’s powerhouse, boasting a history of dominance in the Bundesliga and Europe. Their ability to consistently attract world-class talent secures their place among the very best.
8. Newcastle United – 95.5
Newcastle United’s resurgence has been one of the standout stories of recent years. Backed by passionate fans and ambitious leadership, they have become a serious force in England and beyond.
7. Real Madrid – 95.7
Real Madrid’s legacy as the kings of European football remains untouched. Their Champions League pedigree and star-studded squad ensure they are always contenders for top honors.
6. Chelsea – 96.3
Chelsea continue to thrive in both domestic and European competitions. Their mix of young talent and established stars keeps them firmly among the world’s elite clubs.
5. Barcelona – 97.3
Barcelona’s blend of history, tradition, and attacking flair keeps them at the top of the game. With young talents leading their next era, they remain one of football’s global giants.
4. PSG – 98.5
Paris Saint-Germain dominate French football with their star-studded lineup. Their ambition for European glory keeps them pushing toward the summit of world football.
3. Manchester City – 99.0
Manchester City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola has made them one of the most feared clubs globally. Their consistent success in England and Europe highlights their modern dynasty.
2. Arsenal – 99.7
Arsenal’s resurgence has propelled them back among the very best. Their balance of youth and experience, combined with tactical brilliance, has made them one of the strongest clubs in Europe.
1. Liverpool – 100.0
Liverpool top the global rankings as the best football club in August 2025. Their mix of history, success, and consistency cements them as the true leaders of world football.
