Ah, football! It’s not just a game but a goldmine of wealth – from sponsorships to naming rights to merchandise.
Many ask: "Which is the richest football club in the world?" Or want to see a list of the richest football clubs to see where their favorite teams stand. We’re here to help.
The sport as a whole is one of the biggest money-makers in the world: in 2022, the worldwide football industry was valued at US$3.2 billion. Based on projections, experts anticipate this value to climb to $4 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.79% between 2022 and 2028.
But which teams are the richest?
Today, we're serving you the freshest financial stats with a look at the world’s football elites and the ways in which they rack up their dazzling fortunes:
World's richest football clubs
1. Real Madrid
Net Worth: $6 billion
The richest football club in the world currently, Real Madrid’s TV and jersey sales have been the secret recipe behind their significant wealth. While their dazzling performance on the pitch leaves fans awestruck, their dedicated television channel keeps the euros pouring in. It's no wonder they top the list of the richest football clubs year after year – aided by their top tier footballers including the likes of Toni Kroos.
2. FC Barcelona
Net Worth: $5.51 billion
FC Barcelona, besides being among the biggest clubs in the world, knows how to cash in on their legacy. Their Coutinho, De Jong and Arthur purchases might have drained their finances somewhat, but it paid off in the end. Their massive earnings from the Camp Nou naming rights and merchandise sales firmly plant them in the exclusive club of the world’s richest football teams.
3. Manchester City
Net Worth: $4.9 billion
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In discussions about football finances, Manchester City's complex network of sponsorships is a standout. Their monumental deal with Etihad Airways coupled with their shirt sponsorship from Puma and crypto exchange OKX ensures their perennial presence among the world's top 10 wealthiest football clubs.
The team have also brought in plenty of funds for bookmakers like those on lists of UK betting sites on SBS. As regular favourites for their games and tournaments outright, bookmakers are cashing in on their popularity. Fans are too, as with five wins out of five games played this season, they rarely miss a beat. With a 65.20% implied probability rate of winning the league outright, it’s no surprise that they’re the most-bet-on team at the moment, while their star striker Erling Haaland is the most bet-on player as the season’s top goalscorer.
4. Manchester United
Net Worth: $4.5 billion
With a colossal global fanbase, Manchester United not only ranks high among the biggest clubs in the world but also consistently pulls in cash like few others, making them a mainstay among the highest revenue football clubs.
5. Bayern Munich
Net Worth: $4 billion
Bayern, with unique financial models like the Allianz Arena tours and hefty Bundesliga broadcasting rights, have ensured their place among the top 10 richest football clubs in the world.
6. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Net Worth: $3.9 billion
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Often making headlines with their star-studded lineup, PSG's forays into the luxury fashion world, collaborations with brands like Jordan, and strategic Qatari investments ensure their consistent presence among the elite top 10 richest football clubs in the world. Their Mbappé jerseys are a global sensation, merging both fashion and football seamlessly.
7. Juventus
Net Worth: $3.5 billion
With a rich history and the added Ronaldo factor in recent years, Juventus have become global branding maestros. Their innovative approach to digital content, especially during the 2022 season, skyrocketed their earnings, cementing their place among the highest revenue football clubs.
8. Chelsea FC
Net Worth: $3.3 billion
Previously backed by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Chelsea’s modern legacy is one of consistent success and deep pockets. Their innovative partnerships, like their pioneering move into the world of VR experiences for fans, gives them an edge in the relentless race of money in football.
9. Liverpool FC
Net Worth: $3.1 billion
Anfield's finest, with their storied history and recent Premier League and Champions League successes, have managed to monetise their massive global fanbase. Their 'This Means More' campaign, in collaboration with some major brands, showcases the perfect blend of emotion and commerce, ensuring their position in the top-ten richest football teams.
10. Arsenal FC
Net Worth: $3 billion
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Despite a tumultuous phase on the field in recent years, Arsenal’s financial game remains strong. Nearly as strong as their 2022 season. Their partnership with Emirates and a series of smart investments in the tech sector proves why they're still among the top 10 richest football clubs in the world.
11. Atlético Madrid
Net Worth: $2.9 billion
As Madrid's 'other' team, Atlético has always thrived on being the gritty underdog, but there's nothing secondary about their financial clout. With their new state-of-the-art stadium, Wanda Metropolitano, they've seen an increase in revenue, especially from match-day experiences. Add their successful forays into the Asian markets, and you see a club that's ready to make its mark on the list of biggest clubs in the world.
12. Borussia Dortmund
Net Worth: $2.7 billion
BVB, beyond their electrifying football, has mastered the art of scouting and selling young talent for top dollar. Their fans, known as the 'Yellow Wall', are more than just supporters; they are the essence of the club. With increasing international tours and a successful 2023 in terms of Bundesliga broadcasting rights, Dortmund is not to be underestimated in the financial leagues.
13. AC Milan
Net Worth: $2.5 billion
The Rossoneri, with their illustrious past, are now making waves again in both Serie A and on the financial charts. Their partnership with global brands, coupled with their rich Asian fan base, has seen them surge back among the highest revenue football clubs.
14. Sevilla FC
Net Worth: $2 billion
La Liga's consistent overachievers, Sevilla, with their unmatched success in the UEFA Europa League, have converted trophies into financial success. Their astute transfer policies, selling high and buying potential talents, keep them competitive both on and off the pitch.
15. Tottenham Hotspur
Net Worth: $1.9 billion
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Spurs, despite their well-known refrain about not clinching trophies, have been trophy-worthy in their financial game. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a modern-day marvel, not only hosts football matches but has also become a venue for NFL games and concerts, ensuring a steady flow of revenue, making them a notable entry among the biggest clubs in the world.
16. AS Roma
Net Worth: $1.7 billion
The eternal city's beloved team has often captivated fans with their scintillating football. Off the pitch, their move towards enhancing digital engagement, especially targeting the North American audience, has bolstered their financial standings. Add their strategic partnerships with global brands, and you've got a team that's roaring both in the Colosseum and the boardroom.
17. Everton FC
Net Worth: $1.6 billion
While their neighbours, Liverpool, grab headlines with their riches, Everton has quietly been crafting their own financial journey. The potential new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock promises a future boost in revenue. Their partnerships, especially shirt sponsorships, showcases their ambition to break into the elite list of richest football clubs.
18. FC Porto
Net Worth: $1.5 billion
Porto, often seen as the gateway of talent to Europe, is no stranger to the global football economy. Known for their shrewd scouting system, they've made millions selling star players to bigger European clubs. Their consistent performances in the Champions League further ensure a steady stream of income, proving why they’re among the top financial clubs, even if they're not always in the spotlight.
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19. FC Dallas
Net Worth: $1.4 billion
The first MLS club making it on to the list, FC Dallas is emblematic of football’s (or soccer’s) growing influence in the USA. With their youth academy being one of the best in the country, they not only nurture home-grown talents but also reap significant profits from player sales. Their innovative community engagement programs have successfully tapped into the lucrative American sports market.
20. Shanghai SIPG
Net Worth: $1.3 billion
Football in China has seen a meteoric rise over the last decade, and leading the charge is Shanghai SIPG. With high-profile signings from Europe and beyond, they’ve put the Chinese Super League on the global map. Their commercial deals, particularly in the local market, showcase Asia's growing clout in the global money in football scenario.
21. Olympique Lyonnais
Net Worth: $1.2 billion
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Representing Ligue 1 beyond the shadows of PSG, Olympique Lyonnais has consistently proven its mettle. Their focus on a robust women's team and academy structure sets them apart. Off the field, their move into e-sports and digital fan engagement platforms has given them a fresh revenue stream, securing their spot among Europe's financial elites.
22. Zenit St. Petersburg
Net Worth: $1.1 billion
Backed by Gazprom, Russia's gas giant, Zenit isn't just about icy Siberian winds; they’re hot property in football finance. Their dominance in the Russian Premier League combined with consistent European appearances ensures they have both the sporting and financial prowess to be reckoned with.
23. Flamengo
Net Worth: $1 billion
Football pulses in the veins of Brazil, and Flamengo leads the samba of finances. Their colossal fan base ensures ticket sales and merchandise fly off the shelves. Moreover, their smart media rights deals and brand endorsements have seen them emerge as South America's financial flag-bearers in football.
24. Galatasaray S.K.
Net Worth: $950 million
Nestled in Istanbul, where the east meets the west, Galatasaray blends rich history with modern financial acumen. Their stadium, Türk Telekom Arena, is a cauldron of passion, and match-day revenues are a testament to that. As they expand their brand across Asia and Europe, they're set to breach the billion-dollar mark soon.
25. LA Galaxy
Net Worth: $925 million
Soccer is booming stateside, and LA Galaxy is leading the charge. With the likes of Beckham, Zlatan, and Chicharito gracing their turf in the past, Galaxy has turned Hollywood's glitz and glamour into a lucrative revenue model, making waves in the list of richest football clubs globally.
