The 20 Most Successful Clubs in Champions League History

The UEFA Champions League is more than just a competition — it’s the ultimate stage where legends are forged, heartbreaks etched in history, and unforgettable nights unfold under the brightest lights in football. Over the decades, countless clubs have chased European glory, but only a select few have truly dominated, amassing points season after season to etch their names among the continent’s elite.

This article explores the 20 clubs with the highest all-time points in the Champions League (and its predecessor, the European Champion Clubs’ Cup), excluding qualification rounds. Starting from Celtic at number 20 and climbing all the way to the undisputed kings, Real Madrid, we’ll dive into what makes each of these teams a permanent fixture in European football’s grand story.

20. Celtic FC – 224 points

Celtic FC is one of the proud symbols of Scottish football, forever famous for their 1967 European Cup triumph as the “Lisbon Lions.” While recent decades have seen more modest success, their passionate fanbase and rich history keep them competitive on the European stage. With 224 points, they cap off this elite group, reflecting a tradition of consistent appearances.

19. PSV Eindhoven – 235 points

PSV Eindhoven stands as a cornerstone of Dutch football, best known for winning the European Cup in 1988. Over the years, they’ve maintained a steady presence in Europe’s premier competition, amassing 235 points. Their commitment to attacking play and developing young stars ensures they remain a respected name across the continent.

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18. Dinamo Kiev – 236 points

Dinamo Kiev is a legendary force in Ukrainian and formerly Soviet football, with a European pedigree stretching back to the 1970s. Their 236 points highlight resilience through shifting eras and domestic challenges. Known for technical skill and tactical sharpness, Dinamo remains a team no giant can overlook.

17. Manchester City – 253 points

Manchester City may be newer to the European elite, but their rapid ascent has been extraordinary. With 253 points, collected mostly over the last decade, City’s free-flowing, possession-based style has turned them into regular contenders. Their ambitions suggest many more points and trophies are yet to come.

16. Paris Saint-Germain – 302 points

Paris Saint-Germain has surged onto Europe’s main stage in the last decade thanks to bold investment and superstar signings. With 302 points, PSG has reached the brink of glory, highlighted by a final appearance in 2020. Their blend of Parisian flair and global talent ensures they’re always close to the top.

15. Atlético Madrid – 302 points

Atlético Madrid matches PSG with 302 points, built on relentless work rate and defensive steel under Diego Simeone. Twice finalists in the 2010s, they’ve come heartbreakingly close to lifting the trophy. Their dogged style and big-match mentality keep them firmly in the mix every season.

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14. Borussia Dortmund – 311 points

Borussia Dortmund’s thrilling brand of football and famous Yellow Wall have made them one of Europe’s most beloved clubs. With 311 points, they regularly feature deep in the tournament, including a final run in 2013. Dortmund’s devotion to young talent means they’re always ready to surprise Europe’s giants.

13. AFC Ajax – 350 points

Ajax carries one of the richest legacies in European football, with four European Cups showcasing their historic might. Their 350 points stem from decades of campaigns powered by a legendary youth academy and attacking philosophy. Even today, Ajax embodies football’s most elegant traditions.

12. Arsenal FC – 352 points

Arsenal has crafted many memorable European campaigns, collecting 352 points through consistent group stage and knockout appearances. Their run to the 2006 final remains a highlight, stirring hopes of future triumphs. A new generation now looks to deliver the European silverware that has long eluded them.

11. Chelsea FC – 355 points

Chelsea has quickly carved out a formidable European record, winning the Champions League in 2012 and 2021. Their 355 points reflect how rapidly they’ve joined Europe’s traditional heavyweights. Resilient and star-studded, Chelsea continues to thrive on the biggest nights.

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10. Inter – 377 points

Inter Milan boasts a decorated European history, capped by their treble-winning season in 2010. With 377 points, they’ve consistently represented Italian football with distinction. Their tactical know-how and storied lineage keep them among Europe’s most respected challengers.

9. FC Porto – 418 points

FC Porto’s 418 points stand as a testament to their incredible consistency, especially notable for a club outside Europe’s top five leagues. European champions in 1987 and 2004, Porto expertly cultivates talent that often shines on even bigger stages. They remain fearless underdogs ready to upset giants.

8. SL Benfica – 426 points

Benfica’s name is etched deep in European football history, thanks to consecutive titles in the early 1960s. With 426 points, they’ve remained competitive through countless eras. Their passionate fans and proud traditions ensure Benfica’s place among Europe’s most revered clubs.

7. Liverpool FC – 456 points

Liverpool’s Champions League story is rich and decorated, with six titles that underline their special connection to this tournament. Their 456 points tell of countless legendary nights at Anfield, where the crowd so often becomes the 12th man. Liverpool’s European pedigree is matched by few.

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6. AC Milan – 464 points

AC Milan stands tall as one of Europe’s true aristocrats, with seven titles that illustrate their historic command. Their 464 points span eras of dominance from the days of Van Basten and Maldini to today’s revival. Milan’s very name is synonymous with Champions League brilliance.

5. Manchester United – 528 points

Manchester United’s 528 points are built on unforgettable European nights under the Old Trafford lights. With three Champions League titles, including the unforgettable 1999 triumph, United has a legacy rich with drama. Now under new leadership, they aim to return to the summit of European football.

4. Juventus – 536 points

Juventus remains one of Europe’s giants, with 536 points and two titles to their storied name. Dominant in group stages, Juve’s relentless pursuit of more continental glory continues to drive them. Their history is full of icons who’ve helped shape the Champions League narrative.

3. FC Barcelona – 694 points

FC Barcelona’s legacy is tied to beautiful football, with five titles that showcase their tiki-taka mastery. Their 694 points were forged by legends like Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta who dazzled Europe. Even amid rebuilding, Barcelona’s aura makes them perennial contenders.

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2. Bayern München – 797 points

Bayern München embodies power and precision, with 797 points and six titles making them Germany’s ultimate European force. Their ruthless efficiency sees them routinely in the latter stages, striking fear across the continent. Bayern’s winning culture ensures they are always among the favorites.

1. Real Madrid – 985 points

Real Madrid stands alone atop European football, with an astonishing 985 points and a record 14 Champions League crowns. Their unrivaled connection to this tournament spans legends from Di Stéfano to Ronaldo. No club has mastered the art of European glory quite like Real Madrid.