The 25 Countries with the Most Champions League Winners
The UEFA Champions League is the pinnacle of club football, and its winners are etched into history not just as representatives of their clubs, but of their nations. From iconic powerhouses like Spain and Italy to surprise contributors such as Uruguay and Ghana, the competition has showcased talent from across the globe.
This ranking highlights the 25 countries that have produced the most individual Champions League winners, celebrating the international spirit of Europe’s greatest club tournament. Starting at No. 25, we work our way to the country with the most players to ever lift the famous trophy.
25. Uruguay – 3 winners
Uruguay, the first-ever World Cup champion, has produced just three Champions League winners. Luis Suárez, José Santamaría, and Federico Valverde are the standout names from this football-passionate nation.
24. Nigeria – 3 winners
Three Nigerian players have lifted the Champions League trophy, a remarkable feat for the West African powerhouse. Nwankwo Kanu, John Obi Mikel, and Finidi George have all represented Nigeria at the highest level.
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23. Ivory Coast – 3 winners
The Ivory Coast is home to some of Africa’s finest talents, including Champions League winners Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, and Salomon Kalou. All three made their mark on the European stage in the 2000s and 2010s.
22. Ghana – 3 winners
Ghana matches its West African rivals with three Champions League winners. Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari, and Samuel Kuffour were all key figures for top European clubs.
21. Wales – 4 winners
Though not traditionally a European powerhouse, Wales has four Champions League winners. Gareth Bale’s five titles with Real Madrid headline a group that includes Ryan Giggs and Ian Rush.
20. Poland – 4 winners
Poland’s Champions League legacy includes four winners, led by prolific striker Robert Lewandowski. Jerzy Dudek, Zbigniew Boniek, and others have also played their part in European success.
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19. Norway – 4 winners
Norway may not have a deep pool of Champions League winners, but those who have succeeded are iconic. Erling Haaland, Ole Gunnar Solskjær, and Ronny Johnsen have all etched their names into history.
18. Czech Republic – 4 winners
The Czech Republic boasts four winners, including key members of Liverpool’s unforgettable 2005 triumph. Petr Čech, Milan Baroš, and Vladimír Šmicer stand out among them.
17. Belgium – 4 winners
Belgium’s Golden Generation has boosted the country’s Champions League presence, bringing the total to four. Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, and Eden Hazard have all conquered Europe.
16. Sweden – 7 winners
Sweden has seven Champions League winners, though Zlatan Ibrahimović isn’t one of them. Henrik Larsson, Jesper Blomqvist, and Conny Torstensson are some of the Swedes to lift the trophy.
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15. Denmark – 8 winners
Denmark’s eight Champions League winners include legends like Peter Schmeichel and the Laudrup brothers. Their achievements span from the 1980s to Manchester United’s 1999 treble.
14. Republic of Ireland – 8 winners
Eight Irish players have won the Champions League, with Roy Keane being the most iconic. He’s joined by figures like Mark Lawrenson and Shay Brennan in Irish football history.
13. Croatia – 8 winners
Croatia matches Denmark and Ireland with eight winners, led by Luka Modrić’s six titles. Davor Šuker and Mateo Kovačić are also among the Croatians to reach the summit of Europe.
12. Argentina – 12 winners
Twelve Argentine players have won the Champions League, most notably Lionel Messi. Ángel Di María and Javier Zanetti are also part of the country’s illustrious European legacy.
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11. Former Yugoslavia – 13 winners
Before the breakup of Yugoslavia, the nation produced 13 Champions League winners. Names like Dejan Stanković, Branislav Ivanović, and Nemanja Matić highlight the former country’s talent pool.
10. Romania – 14 winners
Romania may surprise some by ranking in the top 10, thanks largely to Steaua Bucharest’s 1986 win. Cristian Chivu later added to the total with Inter Milan’s victory in 2010.
9. Scotland – 26 winners
Scotland’s proud footballing history includes 26 Champions League winners. Kenny Dalglish, Alan Hansen, and Paul Lambert are just a few who lifted the European Cup.
8. France – 39 winners
France has produced 39 winners, including some of the game’s most technically gifted players. Zinedine Zidane, Thierry Henry, and Karim Benzema have all played starring roles in finals.
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7. Brazil – 41 winners
Brazil’s flair and depth have resulted in 41 Champions League winners. From Roberto Carlos to Neymar and Thiago Silva, Brazilian stars have lit up Europe for decades.
6. Portugal – 46 winners
Portugal owes much of its total to Cristiano Ronaldo’s five titles, but he’s not alone. Bernardo Silva, Luís Figo, and several others have helped raise the country’s tally to 46.
5. Netherlands – 52 winners
The Netherlands ranks fifth with 52 winners, including the legendary Clarence Seedorf – the only player to win the tournament with three different clubs. Virgil van Dijk and Edwin van der Sar also feature.
4. Germany – 64 winners
Germany’s footballing strength is reflected in its 64 Champions League winners. Bayern Munich legends like Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger, and Toni Kroos top the list.
3. England – 70 winners
England claims 70 winners, with clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea providing stars such as Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, and Jude Bellingham.
2. Italy – 74 winners
Italy stands second with 74 winners, many of whom made their mark with AC Milan and Juventus. Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Del Piero, and Andrea Pirlo are among the most iconic.
1. Spain – 80 winners
Spain leads all nations with 80 Champions League winners – thanks largely to Real Madrid and Barcelona’s dominance. Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, and Iker Casillas symbolize the country’s golden era.
