Premier League Top Trumps

The Premier League has seen some of the most famous football clubs in the world, each with its unique place in English football history. But deciding which teams are the true all-time greats of Premier League football is a debate that’s just as exciting as the games themselves. 

That’s why the team at Betting Lounge has decided to join the debate. We’ve given each team a score out of 10 after considering factors such as historical goal difference, European competition qualifications, social media followings and top-level trophies earned.

1. Manchester United | 9.82 out of 10

Manchester United is the ultimate giant of English football, having won the Premier League numerous times and achieving an overall score of 9.82 out of 10. The 28 major trophies since 1992, a 61% win rate, and a goal difference of +1,175 show how relentless they've been.

Their massive international fanbase — 64.1 million on Instagram and 38 million on X — proves that United isn’t just a club; it’s a global institution.

2. Arsenal | 9.52 out of 10

Arsenal is a club with tradition, pride and a knack for winning. The Gunners have been a permanent fixture in the Premier League since day one and have secured a 55% win rate and a +1,019 goal difference in that time. 

They've also qualified for European competitions 30 times, the joint highest with Manchester United, where they proved their quality in the Champions League and Europa League.

3. Chelsea | 9.42 out of 10

Chelsea is the third-best team in England, with a score of 9.42 out of 10. This club excels at winning top-level trophies; they have won 23 since the 1992/93 season — the second-highest number of wins among all teams. These wins include the FA Cup and the Champions League.

However, Chelsea’s goal difference is what stopped the club from climbing any higher, at +880.

1. Swindon Town | 0.78 out of 10

Swindon Town’s brief stint in the Premier League is one that fans probably wish they could forget. With just one season in the top flight, they managed a 12% win rate, winning just five of the 42 games they played. Their goal difference of -53 is another painful reminder of their struggles week in and week out.

No European qualifications or players in the Hall of Fame and a payroll of just over £1.2 million show how far Swindon has fallen since their short-lived top-flight adventure.

2. Oldham Athletic | 1.18 out of 10

Oldham Athletic’s time in the Premier League may have lasted two seasons before facing relegation, but it was a struggle throughout. A 26% win rate and a goal difference of -37 summed up their difficulties in competing at the highest level.

While their social media following isn’t huge — 57,400 on Instagram and 87,500 on X — it’s clear that Oldham still holds a place in some fans' hearts.

3. Barnsley | 1.48 out of 10

Barnsley’s one season in the Premier League during 1997/98 was a baptism of fire. They managed just 10 wins in 38 matches and finished with a goal difference of -45. However, their current payroll of £4.1 million is the highest out of the three worst teams, which could indicate that a return to the top flight is their ultimate goal, and they’re willing to invest in it. 

Despite the challenges, Barnsley has maintained a relatively strong social media following, with 85,500 on Instagram and 182,500 on X.

Manchester United is the most-followed Premier League team, boasting 102.1 million followers on Instagram and X. This is over a third (34%) more than the team in second place, Manchester City.

Manchester United and Arsenal are tied for the most European qualifications among English football clubs, each with 30 entries into European competitions. Chelsea and Liverpool follow closely behind with 27 and 26 qualifications, respectively.

Again, Manchester United and Arsenal are tied for first place, this time for having the most players in the Premier League Hall of Fame. Eight legends from each club are recognised, with Manchester United's including iconic figures like Roy Keane and David Beckham, while Arsenal's inductees feature legends such as Thierry Henry and Ian Wright.

As of the latest figures, Manchester City has the highest annual payroll in the Premier League, with a staggering £218.7 million. This substantial expenditure reflects their investment in top-tier talent and a squad depth crucial in their recent successes, including multiple Premier League titles and their Champions League win in 2023.