The Kings of Europe: Champions League Giants Ranked by Wins – From 20-1
From heart-stopping finals to long-standing dynasties, these 20 clubs have defined European football's premier competition. Ranked by the number of Champions League match victories, here's how the most successful sides stack up — starting from the bottom and climbing all the way to the top.
20. Manchester City – 77 Wins
A relatively fresh face in Champions League history, City’s rise has been swift. Their 2023 title was the culmination of over a decade of growth under heavy investment and Pep Guardiola's leadership.
19. PSV Eindhoven – 78 Wins
The Dutch club's European high point came in 1988, but consistency has kept them in the mix. Even with patchy recent appearances, PSV remains a side no one underestimates in Europe.
18. Atlético Madrid – 89 Wins
Diego Simeone’s men have played in three finals but still chase their first title. Despite the heartbreak, they’re Spain’s third-most successful side by match wins in the competition.
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17. Paris Saint-Germain – 93 Wins
PSG finally lifted the trophy in 2025 after years of underachievement. Fuelled by Qatari investment, they’ve become a permanent fixture in the tournament’s latter stages.
16. Borussia Dortmund – 96 Wins
Champions in 1997, Dortmund remain dangerous in Europe, with finals in 2013 and 2024 adding to their pedigree. Their passionate fanbase and vibrant style have made them one of the continent’s most watchable clubs.
15. Chelsea – 104 Wins
The Blues’ European story began in earnest in the 2000s, with triumphs in 2012 and 2021. Despite a few dips, they remain one of England’s most consistent European performers.
14. Celtic – 106 Wins
The Lisbon Lions of 1967 made history with an all-local squad. Celtic’s legacy in Europe is historic, even if recent decades haven’t matched those glory days.
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13. Dynamo Kyiv – 109 Wins
The Ukrainian powerhouse has never won the competition but boasts a rich history. From Shevchenko to Rebrov, Kyiv was once a feared opponent for Europe’s elite.
11. Inter Milan – 112 Wins
European champions three times, Inter’s most recent win in 2010 came under José Mourinho. They’ve remained relevant in Europe but have stumbled in recent finals.
11. Ajax – 112 Wins
Winners of four titles, Ajax's heyday came in the 1970s with Johan Cruyff at the helm. Though modern times have seen talent drain away, the club’s European heritage is undeniable.
10. Arsenal – 115 Wins
Despite never winning the Champions League, the Gunners have accumulated more match wins than any other London club. Their consistent runs under Arsène Wenger built a solid European résumé.
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9. FC Porto – 126 Wins
Porto’s 2004 win under José Mourinho remains iconic. With two titles to their name, they’re Portugal’s European standard-bearers and a constant threat in knockout ties.
7. Benfica – 138 Wins
Winners in the early '60s, Benfica has reached multiple finals since but fallen short every time. The so-called Bela Guttmann curse continues to haunt them.
7. AC Milan – 138 Wins
Seven-time champions, Milan are European royalty. Their golden eras under Sacchi, Capello, and Ancelotti delivered trophies and unforgettable football.
6. Liverpool – 151 Wins
With six titles, Liverpool has created some of the Champions League's most iconic moments. Their Anfield atmosphere and historic comebacks are part of European folklore.
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5. Juventus – 157 Wins
Juventus have two Champions League titles but an unlucky seven final defeats. They’re always in the mix but have often faltered at the final hurdle.
4. Manchester United – 161 Wins
Three-time winners, United's European legacy is rich with drama and triumph. Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign delivered two famous titles and unforgettable campaigns.
3. Barcelona – 212 Wins
From Cruyff to Messi, Barcelona’s Champions League story is filled with flair and brilliance. Five titles and a host of legendary performances have cemented their place in history.
2. Bayern Munich – 244 Wins
With six European titles and ruthless efficiency, Bayern are perennial contenders. Their ability to rebuild and dominate across eras is unmatched in Germany.
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1. Real Madrid – 302 Wins
The undisputed kings of Europe, Real Madrid has won the Champions League a record 15 times. From Di Stefano to Ronaldo, their legacy is a monument to consistent brilliance on the continent's grandest stage.
