There are many ways to gauge the top clubs in world football, but which ones are the most profitable? Here’s a look at the top 25 clubs ranked by their revenue for the last year, according to Deloitte’s Football Money League.
25. Crystal Palace, €232.5M
Crystal Palace has sold key players, including Marc Guehi to Manchester City, and will need to keep selling talent to maintain its top 25 revenue status.
24. Everton, €234.0M
The prevalence of Premier League clubs in this ranking highlights its financial strength. Everton has struggled historically, but remains a strong revenue generator.
23. Brighton, €238.7M
Brighton is emerging as a significant player in football. Their strategic approach to developing and trading young talent is paying off.
22. Eintracht Frankfurt, €269.9M
Eintracht Frankfurt boasts a talented squad and has successfully sold players like Randal Kolo Muani and Omar Marmoush in recent years.
21. Galatasaray, €273.6M
Galatasaray’s strong performance in the Champions League and key signings, like Victor Osimhen, affirm their status as Turkey’s leading club.
20. West Ham, €276.0M
Despite facing relegation concerns, West Ham remains a prominent club in a major city. Improved sales and smart signings could boost their competitiveness.
19. Benfica, €283.4M
Benfica has excelled in player sales, significantly profiting on transfers such as Joao Felix and Darwin Nunez, showcasing their commercial acumen.
18. Stuttgart, €296.3M
Stuttgart has a strong reputation for developing talent, although rivals like Borussia Dortmund have taken notice and secured some of their younger stars.
17. Newcastle, €398.4M
Newcastle has benefitted from Saudi backing but was already one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs prior to the takeover.
16. Juventus, €401.7M
Juventus has seen a drop from its former dominance, now ranking third in Italy. The overall struggles of Serie A are reflected in their revenue.
15. AC Milan, €410.4M
AC Milan remains a historic club, attracting top talent like Luka Modric. With managerial support, they aim to return to the Champions League spotlight.
14. Aston Villa, €450.2M
Aston Villa demonstrates the Premier League’s financial pull, currently competing in the Champions League more effectively than Juventus.
13. Atletico Madrid, €454.5M
Atletico Madrid considers itself part of La Liga’s elite, yet its revenue lags when compared to the financial powerhouses of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
12. Borussia Dortmund, €531.5M
Dortmund may claim underdog status, but internal issues with recruitment have hindered their potential as a top revenue generator.
11. Inter Milan, €537.5M
Inter Milan aims to recover from a disappointing Champions League performance, but remains a top performer in Serie A this season.
10. Chelsea, €584.1M
Chelsea generates significant revenue and has an owner willing to invest, but needs to focus on winning to regain past successes in competitions.
9. Tottenham Hotspur, €672.6M
Tottenham has a state-of-the-art stadium and top 10 revenues, yet struggles to perform in the Premier League, a challenge for management.
8. Manchester United, €793.1M
Despite having a massive global brand, Manchester United’s revenue has dropped outside the top five, impacted by recent sporting challenges.
7. Arsenal, €821.7M
Arsenal’s turnaround has been notable, as they now out-earn rivals Manchester United. The focus is on securing a trophy to sustain this momentum.
6. Manchester City, €829.3M
With substantial backing, Manchester City also generates revenue independently. Their growing fanbase has contributed to their fiscal success.
5. Liverpool, €836.1M
Liverpool successfully leveraged winning the Premier League into increased spending, aided by a strong global fan presence.
4. PSG, €837.0M
PSG, bolstered by Qatari funding, stands as a dominant force in French football and recent Champions League success enhances their financial position.
3. Bayern Munich, €860.6M
Bayern Munich is praised for its efficient management and marketing, leading the Bundesliga in revenue and maintaining a strong competitive edge.
2. Barcelona, €974.8M
Barcelona faces financial challenges but boasts a rich history and a passionate fanbase, fueled by rising star Lamine Yamal.
1. Real Madrid, €1.164B
Real Madrid stands out with unmatched revenue figures, significantly surpassing both Barcelona and other clubs, showcasing their financial supremacy in football.