The 20 Best Football Leagues in the World – Ranked
Football thrives around the world in various forms, but ranking the best leagues globally isn't easy. Thanks to Opta’s Power Rankings, we now have a data-driven look at which leagues truly stand out, using averages of club strengths to rank the top 20 divisions in the world.
20 – Swiss Super League (Switzerland)
The Swiss Super League just makes the cut with clubs like Basel and Young Boys providing European pedigree. Despite being a small league with only 12 teams, its consistent representation in continental tournaments boosts its stature.
19 – Serie B (Italy)
Italy’s second tier is a historic division with clubs like Palermo, Sampdoria, and Sassuolo fighting for promotion. Though it’s not a top-flight league, the competitive balance and rich tradition keep it highly ranked.
18 – Turkish Super Lig (Turkey)
The Turkish top division boasts intense rivalries among Istanbul giants Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Besiktas. Star power and passionate fans make this a vibrant and high-stakes competition.
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17 – 2. Bundesliga (Germany)
Germany’s second division remains one of the strongest globally, filled with former Bundesliga giants. Clubs like Hamburg and Schalke 04 attract large crowds and play high-quality football.
16 – Ekstraklasa (Poland)
Once ranked 30th, Poland's Ekstraklasa has seen rapid improvement. Clubs such as Legia Warsaw and Lech Poznan are leading the charge in strengthening the league's international profile.
15 – Czech First League (Czech Republic)
The Czech First League has enjoyed dominance from Prague-based clubs like Sparta and Slavia. Its unique end-of-season format ensures drama, with play-offs for title, Europe, and relegation.
14 – Liga MX (Mexico)
Mexico's premier competition features 18 teams and runs on a split-season format. Clubs like Club America and Chivas Guadalajara boast rich legacies and massive fanbases across the Americas.
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13 – Eredivisie (Netherlands)
Once a powerhouse of European football, the Dutch Eredivisie has slipped slightly. Ajax, PSV, and Feyenoord still drive the league, though financial constraints limit global competitiveness.
12 – Superligaen (Denmark)
Denmark’s top league is compact but efficient, with 12 teams and a play-off format. FC Copenhagen and Midtjylland have raised the bar domestically and in Europe.
11 – Liga Profesional (Argentina)
A giant of South American football, Argentina’s Liga Profesional houses historic clubs like River Plate and Boca Juniors. The league remains a hotbed of passion and emerging talent.
10 – English Championship (England)
The second division in England is stronger than many top flights globally. Highly competitive and well-attended, clubs like Leicester and Leeds maintain high standards and drama.
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9 – Major League Soccer (USA)
MLS cracks the top 10, helped significantly by Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami. With 30 clubs and growing talent, it’s fast becoming a destination for stars and fans alike.
8 – Belgian Pro League (Belgium)
Belgium’s top league features historic clubs like Anderlecht and Club Brugge. The league’s strong youth development and regular European appearances give it firm standing.
7 – Primeira Liga (Portugal)
Despite being a smaller league, Portugal's top division is home to Porto, Benfica, and Sporting. These giants dominate domestically and regularly compete on the European stage.
6 – Serie A (Brazil)
Brazil’s premier division leads all non-European leagues, with Santos, Palmeiras, and Flamengo among its elite. Neymar’s return has added more global attention to a historically rich league.
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5 – Ligue 1 (France)
PSG’s dominance has pushed Ligue 1’s profile up, but clubs like Lille and Marseille remain competitive. It's a league packed with talent and the breeding ground for future stars.
4 – La Liga (Spain)
Despite dropping a spot, La Liga remains elite, powered by Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico. The technical quality and history of Spanish football are world-renowned.
3 – Bundesliga (Germany)
Germany’s Bundesliga continues to thrive with Bayern, Dortmund, and Bayer Leverkusen excelling. Strong infrastructure, passionate fans, and tactical football define the league.
2 – Serie A (Italy)
Serie A is back among the elite with clubs like Napoli and Inter Milan enjoying continental success. Rich in tradition, the league offers tactical depth and fierce rivalries.
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1 – Premier League (England)
Unsurprisingly, the Premier League is king, boasting immense talent, money, and global appeal. It features world-class clubs, thrilling competition, and remains the ultimate footballing benchmark.
