Over the past two decades, the term “top 5 European leagues” has become a staple in football discussions, referring to the financial and popularity gap these leagues have created compared to others.
Despite occasional challenges from other leagues, the “Big 5” – as determined by UEFA Coefficients and reflected in the Opta Power Rankings – typically remain unchanged.
Some argue that the “Big Five” concept is outdated, as the English Premier League now stands out as the dominant force, overshadowing the other four in terms of financial clout.
It’s no surprise, then, that England’s top league continues to lead the pack.
In this detailed article, we rank and list out the top 20 football leagues worldwide, evaluating their competitiveness, talent pool, and major impact on the sport. These leagues are more than just matches; they embody rich histories, passionate fan bases, and the aspirations of millions.
- 1. English Premier League (87.66)
- 2. German Bundesliga (84.04)
- 3. Italian Serie A (83.46)
- 4. Spanish La Liga (83.43)
- 5. French Ligue 1 (81.41)
- 6. English Championship (78.58)
- 7. Dutch Eredivisie (77.24)
- 8. Portuguese Primeira Liga (77.20)
- 9. Belgian Pro League (77.19)
- 10. Brazilian Serie A (76.43)
- 11. Swiss Super League (75.72)
- 12. Turkish Super Lig (75.65)
- 13. Russian Premier League (75.08)
- 14. Danish Superliga (75.00)
- 15. Major League Soccer (MLS) (74.77)
- 16. Austrian Bundesliga (74.76)
- 17. Spanish La Liga 2 (74.42)
- 18. Polish Ekstraklasa (73.88)
- 19. Argentine Primera División (73.66)
- 20. German 2. Bundesliga (73.62)
1. English Premier League (87.66)
Unsurprisingly, the English Premier League (EPL) tops the list, and for good reason.
The EPL features some of the world’s most valuable players and clubs. Stars like Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah, and Kevin De Bruyne grace the English pitches, bringing immense talent and drawing global audiences.
The league is known for its fast-paced matches, star-studded lineups, and big world following. Teams like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Manchester City dominate both domestically and in European competitions.
With three of the last six Champions League titles won by English teams, the EPL’s depth and quality make it the most-watched football league worldwide.
2. German Bundesliga (84.04)
The Bundesliga, famed for its passionate fans, efficient management, and emphasis on homegrown talent, ranks second.
Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s elite clubs, and Borussia Dortmund, perennial Champions League contenders, highlight the league’s strength. The Bundesliga’s fan-friendly policies, high-scoring games, and the recent arrival of star players like Harry Kane have bolstered its popularity.
Clubs like Eintracht Frankfurt, winners of the 2021/22 Europa League, further showcase the league’s competitive edge.
3. Italian Serie A (83.46)
Italy’s Serie A secures third place, blending tradition with modern talent.
Despite Juventus’ recent struggles, clubs like Napoli, AC Milan, and Inter Milan have led a resurgence. Inter’s recent Champions League final appearance and Atalanta’s Europa League triumph reflect the league’s competitiveness.
Serie A is known for its tactical acumen and defensive solidity, offering a captivating mix of young talent and marquee signings.
4. Spanish La Liga (83.43)
La Liga, synonymous with technical brilliance and flair, lands in fourth place.
Home to giants like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, the league has historically been second only to the EPL. However, the departures of superstars like Messi and Ronaldo and Barcelona’s recent struggles have impacted its standing.
Despite this, Real Madrid’s recent Champions League against Dortmund last night and Jude Bellingham’s rise signify potential for future growth.
La Liga remains a spectacle with clubs like Atletico Madrid and the Cinderella story of Girona adding to its charm.
5. French Ligue 1 (81.41)
Ligue 1 has risen in prominence, largely due to Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) investment in world-class talent like Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.
PSG, along with historic clubs like Lyon and Marseille, make the league competitive and exciting. While PSG is yet to win a Champions League title, their potential and the competitiveness of teams like OGC Nice and Lille enhance Ligue 1’s appeal.
6. English Championship (78.58)
Often overlooked, the English Championship is one of the most unpredictable and competitive leagues.
It serves as a breeding ground for future Premier League stars and offers nail-biting action with its promotion battles. The league’s depth and intensity provide a fascinating spectacle, making it a significant part of English football.
7. Dutch Eredivisie (77.24)
The Eredivisie is celebrated for its focus on youth development and attacking football. Clubs like Ajax and PSV Eindhoven have a rich history and continue to produce exceptional talent.
The league’s open play and goal-filled matches delight football purists, making it a vibrant and exciting competition.
8. Portuguese Primeira Liga (77.20)
The Portuguese Primeira Liga, ranked eighth, features quality teams and players.
FC Porto and Benfica, two top European sides, significantly boost the league’s reputation. Known for producing stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, the league’s clubs regularly compete in European competitions, showing their quality and competitiveness.
9. Belgian Pro League (77.19)
The Belgian Pro League, while not the most star-studded, consistently punches above its weight.
Clubs like Club Brugge and Anderlecht contribute majorly to the development of young talents who shine on the world stage. Belgian teams regularly compete in the Champions League and Europa League, maintaining high football standards.
10. Brazilian Serie A (76.43)
Brazil’s Serie A, synonymous with flair and skill, reflects the country’s rich footballing culture.
Legendary clubs like Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Santos produce scintillating football. Despite losing stars like Luis Suarez, the league continues to nurture talented young players, maintaining its status as one of the world’s best leagues.
11. Swiss Super League (75.72)
The Swiss Super League consistently delivers quality football.
Clubs like FC Basel and Young Boys have made significant strides in European competitions, showing the league’s growing competitiveness and solidifying its place among the top leagues.
12. Turkish Super Lig (75.65)
The Turkish Super Lig is known for its passionate fan base and intense rivalries, especially the Istanbul derbies involving Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Besiktas.
The league’s vibrant atmosphere and competitive matches make it an enthralling watch.
13. Russian Premier League (75.08)
The Russian Premier League features a mix of historic and financially strong clubs like Zenit Saint Petersburg and CSKA Moscow. Its physical style and strategic play offer a unique footballing experience, gaining international recognition.
14. Danish Superliga (75.00)
The Danish Superliga prioritizes youth development and tactical acumen.
Clubs such as FC Copenhagen and FC Midtjylland have made their mark in European competitions, reflecting the league’s rising standards and competitive nature.
15. Major League Soccer (MLS) (74.77)
Major League Soccer (MLS) has grown rapidly, attracting international stars and expanding its reach.
Known for its diverse playing styles and burgeoning fan base, MLS is carving out its niche in global football, with teams like LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders leading the charge.
16. Austrian Bundesliga (74.76)
The Austrian Bundesliga, spearheaded by RB Salzburg, has become a hotspot for emerging talents.
The league’s focus on youth and aggressive football has made it a breeding ground for future stars, enhancing its reputation in Europe.
17. Spanish La Liga 2 (74.42)
La Liga 2, Spain’s second division, is highly competitive and a big stepping stone for clubs aspiring to the top tier.
Young talents and historic clubs like Deportivo La Coruna ensure high drama and quality football.
18. Polish Ekstraklasa (73.88)
Poland’s Ekstraklasa is a league on the rise, with clubs like Legia Warsaw and Lech Poznan leading the charge.
The league’s improving infrastructure and competitive nature are drawing more attention, showcasing Poland’s footballing potential.
19. Argentine Primera División (73.66)
The Argentine Primera División is steeped in tradition and passion.
Known for producing legendary players like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, the league’s fierce rivalries, such as the Superclásico between Boca Juniors and River Plate, make it a must-watch.
20. German 2. Bundesliga (73.62)
Germany’s second tier, the 2. Bundesliga is known for its competitiveness and fan engagement.
It serves as a vital platform for clubs aiming for promotion to the Bundesliga, ensuring high-stakes matches and a vibrant footballing atmosphere.
Top Best 20 Football Leagues In The World
| # | League | Rankings |
| 1. | English Premier League | 87.66 |
| 2. | German Bundesliga | 84.04 |
| 3. | Italian Serie A | 83.46 |
| 4. | Spanish La Liga | 83.43 |
| 5. | French Ligue 1 | 81.41 |
| 6. | English Championship | 78.58 |
| 7. | Dutch Eredivisie | 77.24 |
| 8. | Portuguese Primieira Liga | 77.20 |
| 9. | Belgian Pro League | 77.19 |
| 10. | Brazilian Serie A | 76.43 |
| 11. | Swiss Super League | 75.72 |
| 12. | Turkish Super Lig | 75.65 |
| 13. | Russian Premier League | 75.08 |
| 14. | Danish Superliga | 75.00 |
| 15. | MLS | 74.77 |
| 16. | Austrian Bundesliga | 74.76 |
| 17. | Spanish La Liga 2 | 74.42 |
| 18. | Polish Ekstraklasa | 73.88 |
| 19. | Argentina Primera División | 73.66 |
| 20. | German 2. Bundesliga | 73.62 |
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