In the world of football, support for clubs transcends geographic borders, cultural differences, and generations. The most supported football clubs globally have built massive fanbases (even on social media) through decades of success, historical moments, and influential players.
While it is not feasible to accurately determine the exact supporters of each team, social media following is a more realistic medium to gauge a club’s reach in contemporary times.
Meanwhile, it should be known that not all followers of a particular club on social media are their supporters, while several of a team’s fans may not follow them on social media.
Nevertheless, a widely supported club will no doubt equally command a large social media followership (across all platforms).
In this post, FootballOrbit presents you with the top 10 most supported soccer teams worldwide, based on social media followers.
1. Real Madrid (473.8 million followers)
Undoubtedly the most supported football club in the world, Real Madrid astonishingly boasts over 470 million social media followers and an estimated global fanbase of more than 500 million.
Unsurprisingly, this dominance stems from their consistent success in both domestic and European competitions, with 15 UEFA Champions League titles adding to their illustrious history.
Furthermore, the club’s high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane — and current stars Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham — have further cemented their position as global icons.
Besides, Real Madrid is also topping our list of the richest football clubs in the world.
2. Barcelona (427.3 million followers)
With over 420 million social media followers, Barcelona ranks second on this list.
Known for their philosophical approach to football, embodied by their tiki-taka style, the Blaugranas have built a fanbase that stretches across continents.
Moreover, the Lionel Messi era significantly boosted their global reach, but the club’s unique identity — blending beautiful football with Catalan pride — ensures its widespread appeal.
3. Manchester United (233.6 million followers)
With over 230 million followers across all social media platforms, Manchester United remains the most popular English club globally.
Their widespread appeal is rooted in a storied history of domestic and international triumphs, particularly under Sir Alex Ferguson.
Also, the club’s legacy — combined with iconic players like David Beckham, Eric Cantona, and Cristiano Ronaldo — continues to attract fans from all corners of the world.
4. PSG (199.4 million followers)
PSG’s awesome rise to prominence over the past decade and half is a remarkable tale of transformation.
This is largely due to their Qatari ownership and the arrival of superstar players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Edinson Cavani, Neymar, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, among others.
Hence, with almost 200 million social media followers, PSG has captured the hearts of fans — particularly younger generations — thanks to their glamorous brand and continuous dominance in Ligue 1.
Additionally, winning their first ever UEFA Champions League trophy last season — along with their mind blowing football and youngsters — will see them gain more popularity worldwide.
5. Manchester City (179.6 million followers)
Once overshadowed by their neighbors Manchester United, Manchester City has risen to become a global powerhouse — amassing nearly 180 million followers across social media platforms.
This surge in support is closely tied to their tiki-taka brand of football coupled with success under Pep Guardiola, as well as the influx of high-profile players like Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri and Erling Haaland.
Furthermore, Man City’s Champions League victory in 2023 — as part of a glorious treble — has solidified their status on the global stage.
6. Juventus (174.9 million followers)
Known as “La Vecchia Signora” (The Old Lady), Juventus is Italy’s most successful club, with a global following of over 174 million.
Juventus’ historical dominance in Serie A — coupled with the international fame brought by superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrea Pirlo, and Gianluigi Buffon — has expanded their fanbase well beyond Italy.
Despite recent struggles, their international reach remains formidable.
7. Liverpool (166.7 million followers)
Liverpool’s rich history and passionate fanbase make them a club like no other.
Known for their tingling “You’ll Never Walk Alone” anthem and the electric atmosphere at Anfield, Liverpool has garnered more than 166 million social media followers.
Moreso, their resurgence during the Jürgen Klopp era — including a Champions League win in 2019 and a Premier League title in 2020 — has reignited global support.
Additionally, the presence of Mohamed Salah has gained them more followership in the Arab world.
8. Chelsea (152.8 million followers)
Chelsea, with more than 152 million followers, has long been one of the Premier League’s most successful clubs.
Their rise to prominence was propelled by Roman Abramovich’s ownership, and they continue to attract fans globally with their mix of success and star power.
The Blues UEFA Champions League victories in 2012 and 2021 — coupled with the presence of top players like Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard, Eden Hazard and now Cole Palmer — have helped grow their loyal fanbase.
9. Bayern Munich (149.1 million followers)
Germany’s top club, Bayern Munich, enjoys a global social media following of almost 150 million fans.
With a storied history of success in the Bundesliga and European football, Bayern has earned its place among the most supported clubs worldwide.
The Bavarians strong presence in global markets, including Asia and Europe, was further enhanced by their elite players in the past like Arjen Robben, Frank Ribery Robert Lewandowski — and the present ones like Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala and Manuel Neuer.
10. Arsenal (114.1 million followers)
Arsenal, with a devoted fanbase above 114 million, remains one of England’s most iconic clubs.
In terms of trophies won, the Gunners are the third-most successful club in English football.
Arsenal have won 13 league titles (including one unbeaten), a record 14 FA Cups, 2 League Cups, 17 FA Community Shields and a Football League Centenary Trophy.
In conclusion, the most supported football teams in the world have risen to prominence through a combination of success on the pitch, strategic branding, and the magnetic appeal of their players.
Whether it’s Real Madrid’s legacy of dominance or PSG’s modern glamour, these clubs continue to captivate millions of fans, ensuring that their influence on the global soccer stage remains as strong as ever.
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