The Definitive Ranking: The 100 Best Football Clubs in the World Right Now
Some clubs have exceeded expectations this season, proving that success isn’t just about financial power but also smart tactics, player development, and team cohesion. Meanwhile, traditional giants continue to dominate, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level year after year.
But which clubs are truly the best in world football right now? To answer that question, we turn to Opta’s Power Rankings, a system that evaluates over 13,000 clubs globally and assigns each a rating based on their performances, squad strength, and overall ability. This ranking provides a data-driven comparison of the top teams across different leagues and competitions.
We’ve analyzed the latest Opta rankings and compiled a list of the 100 best clubs in the world right now.
100. Werder Bremen
Werder Bremen remains a solid team in the Bundesliga, though their rating of 83.4 suggests they are struggling to compete with the league’s elite. The club continues to rebuild after a period of inconsistency in Germany’s top flight.
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99. Dinamo Zagreb
The dominant force in Croatian football, Dinamo Zagreb holds a rating of 83.5. Their ability to develop top talents and perform well in European competitions keeps them among the top 100 clubs.
98. Botafogo
A historic Brazilian club, Botafogo has resurged in recent years and currently sits at a rating of 83.5. They are pushing to re-establish themselves among South America’s best teams.
97. Rennes
Rennes continues to be a competitive force in Ligue 1, maintaining a rating of 83.7. Their focus on young talent development has made them a consistent presence in European tournaments.
96. Anderlecht
Belgium’s most successful club, Anderlecht, remains a strong contender in the Jupiler Pro League with a rating of 83.8. Though not as dominant as in past years, they still produce top talents.
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95. Sheffield United
Sheffield United’s rating of 83.9 reflects their resilience despite fluctuations between the Premier League and the Championship. Their ability to compete against stronger teams remains impressive.
94. Deportivo Alavés
With a rating of 84.0, Deportivo Alavés is holding their ground in La Liga. They remain a team capable of surprising bigger clubs, thanks to their disciplined defensive play.
93. Flamengo
One of Brazil’s biggest clubs, Flamengo is known for its passionate fanbase and attacking style, reflected in their rating of 84.1. They continue to dominate domestically and perform well in South America.
92. Palmeiras
Palmeiras, another powerhouse in Brazilian football, has a rating of 84.1. Their recent success in both domestic and continental competitions makes them a top team in South America.
91. Columbus Crew
One of the most consistent teams in MLS, Columbus Crew boasts a rating of 84.3. They continue to be a dominant force in American soccer, winning major titles in recent years.
90. Sparta Praha
Sparta Praha, a giant in Czech football, holds a rating of 84.3. They remain a dominant team in their domestic league and frequently challenge in European competitions.
89. Rangers
Scottish football’s historic club, Rangers, holds a rating of 84.3. Their ongoing battle for domestic supremacy with Celtic keeps them in the European football spotlight.
88. Toulouse FC
Toulouse, with a rating of 84.4, continues to make strides in Ligue 1. Their recent cup performances and squad development have helped them stay competitive.
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87. Genoa CFC
A historic club in Italian football, Genoa has maintained a rating of 84.5. While they struggle against Serie A’s giants, they remain a respected side in the league.
86. Inter Miami
With high-profile signings, Inter Miami has grown into a major force in MLS, boasting a rating of 84.5. Their ambition to bring world-class talent to the league has elevated their status.
85. AZ Alkmaar
AZ Alkmaar continues to be a consistent top-four side in the Eredivisie, earning a rating of 84.5. Their commitment to youth development has kept them competitive in Europe.
84. Brest
A rising club in French football, Brest holds a rating of 84.7. Their disciplined approach and strong performances have earned them recognition in Ligue 1.
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83. Udinese Calcio
Udinese remains a stable Serie A side with a rating of 84.7. Though not among Italy’s elite, they consistently challenge for mid-table finishes and occasional European spots.
82. Club América
Mexico’s most successful club, Club América, has a rating of 84.8. Their dominance in Liga MX and strong international performances keep them among the best clubs.
81. Bodø/Glimt
The Norwegian champions continue to impress with a rating of 84.9. Bodø/Glimt’s aggressive attacking play has made them a rising force in European football.
80. Valencia CF
Once a European powerhouse, Valencia now holds a rating of 85.0. Financial struggles have hindered their progress, but they remain a competitive force in La Liga.
79. FC Augsburg
Augsburg continues to fight for stability in the Bundesliga, earning a rating of 85.0. Their ability to avoid relegation while challenging stronger teams makes them a resilient club.
78. Borussia M’Gladbach
With a rating of 85.0, Borussia M’Gladbach remains a respected Bundesliga club. Their historic success and consistent European appearances keep them among Germany’s top teams.
77. Sporting Braga
Sporting Braga holds a rating of 85.2, making them one of Portugal’s strongest teams outside the traditional “Big Three.” Their European performances have raised their profile.
76. RC Lens
RC Lens has been a rising force in Ligue 1, achieving a rating of 85.3. Their recent resurgence has put them back in the European competition conversation.
75. Crvena Zvezda
The dominant club in Serbian football, Crvena Zvezda, has a rating of 85.4. They remain a frequent Champions League participant, continuing their proud tradition.
74. Rayo Vallecano
Rayo Vallecano, with a rating of 85.4, has established itself as a solid mid-table La Liga club. Their attacking style makes them a fan-favorite in Spanish football.
73. Strasbourg
Strasbourg has improved in recent years, earning a rating of 85.4. Their strong squad development and tactical approach make them a competitive team in Ligue 1.
72. Burnley FC
With a rating of 85.5, Burnley remains a well-organized team, often bouncing between the Premier League and the Championship. Their defensive solidity is their biggest strength.
71. Mallorca
Mallorca continues to prove its resilience in La Liga, earning a rating of 85.5. They often trouble bigger teams with their disciplined play.
70. Osasuna
Osasuna, with a rating of 85.6, has built a strong reputation in Spanish football. Their solid performances in La Liga make them a tough opponent for any team.
69. VfL Wolfsburg
Wolfsburg has a rating of 85.7 and remains a consistent Bundesliga club. Though not at their peak from previous seasons, they still compete for European qualification.
68. KRC Genk
One of Belgium’s top clubs, Genk holds a rating of 85.8. Their strong youth development program ensures they stay competitive in both domestic and European football.
67. OGC Nice
Nice continues to be an ambitious club in Ligue 1, earning a rating of 85.9. Their recent investment and squad improvements have helped them challenge the league’s top teams.
66. Olympiakos Piraeus
Greece’s most dominant club, Olympiakos, has a rating of 86.0. Their European experience and domestic success keep them a force in Greek football.
65. Getafe CF
Getafe has built a reputation for being a difficult La Liga opponent, earning a rating of 86.0. Their defensive style has frustrated some of Spain’s biggest clubs.
64. SC Freiburg
Freiburg has steadily grown into one of Germany’s most respected teams, achieving a rating of 86.1. Their consistency in Bundesliga and European appearances make them a top 100 club.
63. Sevilla FC
Sevilla remains a major force in Spanish football with a rating of 86.1. Their Europa League dominance and tactical strength keep them competitive at the highest level.
62. Galatasaray
One of Turkey’s most iconic clubs, Galatasaray boasts a rating of 86.1. Their passionate fanbase and domestic success continue to define them as a football powerhouse.
61. AFC Ajax
Despite recent struggles, Ajax still holds a rating of 86.2. Their famous youth academy and European history keep them among the best clubs in the world.
60. Girona FC
Girona has been one of the surprise packages in La Liga, earning a rating of 86.2. Their attacking play and strong performances have made them a rising force in Spanish football.
59. Slavia Prague
The Czech giants, Slavia Praha, continue to dominate their domestic league with a rating of 86.3. Their strong European performances in recent seasons have boosted their reputation.
58. Al Hilal
Saudi Arabia’s most successful club, Al Hilal, holds a rating of 86.4. Their recent big-money signings have helped them establish themselves as a global football powerhouse.
57. Union Saint-Gilloise
Union Saint-Gilloise has been a revelation in Belgian football, earning a rating of 86.5. Their rapid rise and competitive performances in European competitions have been impressive.
56. Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves continue to be a tough opponent in the Premier League, with a rating of 86.5. Their defensive organization and counter-attacking style have made them a respected side.
55. Leeds United
Leeds United, with a rating of 86.5, remains a historic English club trying to re-establish itself among the elite. Their energetic playing style makes them a fan-favorite.
54. Celta de Vigo
Celta de Vigo has built a strong identity in La Liga, earning a rating of 86.6. Their reliance on talented attacking players makes them a dangerous team.
53. Celtic FC
The Scottish champions, Celtic, hold a rating of 86.7. Their dominance in Scotland and regular appearances in European competitions keep them among the top 100.
52. Torino FC
Torino remains a stable Serie A club, earning a rating of 87.0. Though they are not title contenders, their history and strong performances keep them competitive.
51. Fenerbahçe
One of Turkey’s biggest clubs, Fenerbahçe, has a rating of 87.0. They are always among the contenders for the Turkish league title and have a strong European presence.
50. FC Porto
The Portuguese giants, Porto, maintain a rating of 87.2. Their European pedigree and domestic dominance make them one of the best clubs outside the traditional “Big Five” leagues.
49. Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad continues to be a top team in La Liga, earning a rating of 87.2. Their focus on homegrown talent and attacking football makes them an exciting team to watch.
48. VfB Stuttgart
Stuttgart has been regaining its status in German football, achieving a rating of 87.5. Their recent performances suggest they are on an upward trajectory.
47. Mainz 05
With a rating of 87.8, Mainz 05 has established itself as a solid Bundesliga side. Their ability to challenge bigger clubs makes them an unpredictable opponent.
46. West Ham United
West Ham United, with a rating of 87.9, has been a strong competitor in the Premier League. Their recent European success has elevated their status.
45. Olympique Marseille
One of France’s most historic clubs, Marseille, has a rating of 87.9. Their passionate fanbase and ability to challenge PSG keep them relevant in Ligue 1.
44. Everton FC
Everton remains a well-respected English club with a rating of 88.1. Despite recent struggles, they continue to be a mainstay in the Premier League.
43. Club Brugge
Club Brugge has dominated Belgian football for years, earning a rating of 88.3. Their consistent Champions League appearances highlight their strength.
42. Eintracht Frankfurt
Eintracht Frankfurt, with a rating of 88.4, has been a strong Bundesliga team in recent seasons. Their European success has further enhanced their reputation.
41. Real Betis
Real Betis continues to impress in La Liga, earning a rating of 88.4. Their attacking football and strong squad make them a dangerous opponent.
40. ACF Fiorentina
Fiorentina has been a competitive force in Serie A, earning a rating of 88.5. Their ability to challenge for European spots makes them one of Italy’s most exciting clubs.
39. Feyenoord
One of the Netherlands’ biggest clubs, Feyenoord holds a rating of 88.5. Their domestic success and strong European campaigns keep them among the best in Europe.
38. Brentford FC
Brentford has emerged as a well-organized Premier League side, earning a rating of 88.8. Their smart recruitment and tactical approach have helped them overachieve.
37. RB Leipzig
RB Leipzig continues to be one of the Bundesliga’s strongest teams, with a rating of 88.9. Their high-pressing style and young squad make them a dangerous team.
36. AS Monaco
AS Monaco remains a strong contender in Ligue 1, earning a rating of 89.1. Their ability to develop young talents has kept them competitive in France and Europe.
35. Olympique Lyonnais
Lyon has historically been one of France’s top clubs, holding a rating of 89.2. Though they’ve struggled in recent seasons, their talent pipeline remains elite.
34. Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund, with a rating of 89.4, continues to be Bayern’s main challenger in Germany. Their attacking football and passionate fanbase make them a European favorite.
33. LOSC Lille
Lille has built a reputation for upsetting Ligue 1 giants, earning a rating of 89.4. Their surprise title win in 2021 showed their ability to compete at the highest level.
32. Villarreal
Villarreal, with a rating of 90.0, remains one of Spain’s most well-run clubs. Their tactical discipline and European success make them a dangerous opponent.
31. AS Roma
Roma holds a rating of 90.0 and continues to be one of Italy’s most ambitious clubs. Their recent European success has reinforced their reputation as a top team.
30. SL Benfica
Benfica, Portugal’s most successful club, has a rating of 90.0. Their ability to develop top players and compete in Europe keeps them among the elite.
29. AC Milan
AC Milan, with a rating of 90.1, remains a giant of Italian football. Their recent resurgence has brought them back into the title conversation in Serie A.
28. SS Lazio
Lazio continues to be a strong Serie A contender, holding a rating of 90.1. Their tactical discipline and strong squad make them a consistent European competitor.
27. PSV
PSV Eindhoven has a long history of success in the Netherlands, earning a rating of 90.1. Their attacking play and European pedigree keep them among the top clubs.
26. Fulham FC
Fulham has become a stable Premier League side, holding a rating of 90.3. Their ability to balance defensive strength with attacking flair has made them a tough opponent.
25. Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham, with a rating of 90.4, continues to compete at the highest level despite their lack of recent trophies. Their attacking play and star power keep them among England’s elite.
24. Bologna FC
Bologna has surprised many with their performances in Serie A, earning a rating of 90.4. Their tactical discipline and solid squad make them a tough opponent.
23. Sporting CP
Sporting CP remains one of Portugal’s top clubs, holding a rating of 90.4. Their ability to develop young players and compete in Europe makes them a powerhouse.
22. Manchester United
Despite recent struggles, Manchester United still holds a rating of 90.4. Their history, fanbase, and financial power keep them among football’s elite.
21. AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth has continued to impress in the Premier League, earning a rating of 90.8. Their efficient style of play and tactical discipline have helped them remain competitive.
20. Juventus
Juventus remains one of Italy’s most successful clubs, holding a rating of 91.0. While they have faced challenges in recent seasons, their defensive strength and experience keep them competitive.
19. Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace continues to establish itself as a solid Premier League side, earning a rating of 91.1. Their ability to develop exciting attacking players has made them a fan-favorite.
18. Nottingham Forest
With a rich history, Nottingham Forest holds a rating of 91.2. Their recent return to the Premier League has seen them grow into a respected mid-table side.
17. Athletic Club Bilbao
Athletic Club, known for their Basque-only policy, has a rating of 91.5. Their strong youth development and defensive discipline make them a tough La Liga competitor.
16. Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton has earned a rating of 91.7, becoming one of the Premier League’s most exciting teams. Their focus on data-driven recruitment has turned them into a force to be reckoned with.
15. Napoli
Napoli, with a rating of 91.9, remains a powerhouse in Italian football. Their recent Serie A title win has further cemented their status as one of the country’s top clubs.
14. Aston Villa
Aston Villa has grown into a serious contender in the Premier League, earning a rating of 92.0. Their investments and tactical improvements have made them a dangerous opponent.
13. Atalanta
Atalanta, with a rating of 92.7, continues to impress in Serie A. Their attacking philosophy and ability to challenge bigger clubs make them a respected side.
12. Chelsea FC
Chelsea remains one of England’s biggest clubs despite recent struggles, holding a rating of 92.8. Their financial power and ability to attract top talent ensure they remain competitive.
11. Newcastle United
With a rating of 93.4, Newcastle United has quickly risen under new ownership. Their smart recruitment and solid performances have made them a serious force in the Premier League.
10. Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Leverkusen has emerged as a Bundesliga title contender, earning a rating of 93.6. Their attacking football and young squad have made them one of Germany’s most exciting teams.
9. Atlético Madrid
Atlético Madrid continues to be one of Spain’s elite clubs, holding a rating of 94.5. Their defensive strength and ability to compete with Real Madrid and Barcelona make them a feared opponent.
8. Manchester City
Manchester City, despite recent dips, holds a rating of 95.4. Their tactical brilliance and squad depth keep them as one of Europe’s most dominant clubs.
7. Bayern München
Bayern München remains Germany’s biggest club, earning a rating of 96.2. Their continued dominance in the Bundesliga and European success keep them among the elite.
6. Real Madrid
Real Madrid, the most successful club in Champions League history, has a rating of 97.9. Their ability to reinvent themselves and compete at the highest level is unmatched.
5. PSG
Paris Saint-Germain continues to dominate French football, holding a rating of 98.1. Their star-studded squad and ambitions in Europe keep them among the world’s best.
4. Inter Milan
Inter Milan has returned to the top of Italian football, earning a rating of 98.1. Their balanced squad and tactical discipline make them one of the strongest teams in Europe.
3. FC Barcelona
Barcelona, with a rating of 98.5, remains one of the biggest clubs in the world. Their young talents and tactical evolution have helped them stay competitive at the highest level.
2. Arsenal FC
Arsenal has regained their status as a Premier League powerhouse, earning a rating of 98.5. Their attacking style and strong squad make them one of the most dangerous teams in Europe.
1. Liverpool FC
Liverpool sits at the top of the rankings with a perfect rating of 100.0. Their mix of experience, world-class players, and tactical brilliance makes them the best team in the world right now.
