In a nationwide fan-powered analysis that ranks the biggest football club in each major region of the UK, The Forty Four has delivered its verdict. Combining success, stature, stadium, support, and story, this list is less about form tables and more about football soul.

From the giants of the English top flight to historic dynasties of Scotland, here are the Top 20 – ranked, rated, and ready for debate.

1. Manchester United – Greater Manchester

⭐ Rating: 10/10

With 20 league titles, three European Cups, and unparalleled global reach, United dominate not just their city but English football. From Busby to Ferguson, no one comes close in size or story.

2. Liverpool – Merseyside

⭐ Rating: 9.8/10

Anfield’s roar echoes through history. Liverpool’s 19 league titles and 6 European Cups make them England’s most successful side in Europe.

3. Arsenal – London

⭐ Rating: 9.6/10

Region: Greater London

The Gunners boast class and consistency. Their record 14 FA Cups and legendary Invincibles season keep them at the top of the capital.

4. Manchester City – North West (Runner-Up)

⭐ Rating: 9.5/10

While recent dominance is clear, City’s success is still building. Backed by wealth and brilliance, they may soon take the top spot if legacy catches up to trophies.

5. Celtic – Scotland

⭐ Rating: 9.3/10

 

The Bhoys are not just the biggest in Scotland, but among the UK elite. 120+ major trophies and a 1967 European Cup make Celtic a continental force in football lore.

6. Chelsea – West London

⭐ Rating: 9.2/10

 

Chelsea’s modern era success – including 2 Champions League wins – propels them into top-tier status. History has caught up with silverware.

7. Rangers – Scotland

⭐ Rating: 9.1/10

 

With more domestic trophies (122) than any UK club, Rangers are massive. The only club that challenges Celtic’s dominance – and they do it year in, year out.

8. Tottenham Hotspur – North London

⭐ Rating: 8.6/10

Region: Greater London (North)

A historic club with an incredible modern stadium and global pull. Still chasing that next big trophy moment.

9. Aston Villa – West Midlands

⭐ Rating: 8.4/10

 

One of England’s founding clubs with seven league titles and a 1982 European Cup. Huge history, massive fanbase, and new life under Emery.

10. Newcastle United – North East

⭐ Rating: 8.3/10

Region: North East England

Few match the Toon Army for passion. St James’ Park is sacred ground. New ownership is ushering in a revival to match their history.

11. Nottingham Forest – East Midlands

⭐ Rating: 8.2/10

Region: East Midlands

Back-to-back European Cups under Brian Clough put Forest on the global map. Respected legacy, now rekindled in the top flight.

12. Leeds United – Yorkshire

⭐ Rating: 8.0/10

Region: Yorkshire

Don Revie’s Leeds were feared and famous. Their modern fanbase is one of the biggest outside the ‘big six’. Heritage-rich.

13. Cardiff City – Wales

⭐ Rating: 7.7/10

Region: Wales

Only Welsh club to win the FA Cup (1927). Strongest support in the country and a defining identity tied to their capital city.

14. Sheffield Wednesday – South Yorkshire

⭐ Rating: 7.5/10

Region: South Yorkshire

Massive tradition, old-school support, and a true community club. Four league titles and a place in English football’s DNA.

15. Portsmouth – South Coast

⭐ Rating: 7.4/10

Region: Hampshire/South Coast

Back-to-back promotions and FA Cup glory in 2008 make Pompey the pride of the South Coast. Working-class heritage lives on.

16. Sunderland – North East (Runner-Up)

⭐ Rating: 7.2/10

Region: Tyne and Wear

Historic club with six league titles and one of the UK’s biggest stadiums. Modern struggles don’t define their size.

17. Swansea City – South Wales

⭐ Rating: 7.0/10

Region: South Wales

A Premier League era of success and cup glory gives Swansea modern prestige. A strong rival to Cardiff.

18. Linfield – Northern Ireland

⭐ Rating: 6.9/10

Region: Northern Ireland (Belfast)

With 50+ league titles, Linfield are Northern Ireland’s undisputed kings. Historic dominance at home, modest presence abroad.

19. Derby County – East Midlands (Runner-Up)

⭐ Rating: 6.8/10

Region: East Midlands

Two league titles and Brian Clough legacy keep Derby in the conversation. Loyal fanbase and a sleeping giant feel.

20. Hibernian – Scotland (Edinburgh)

⭐ Rating: 6.7/10

Region: Edinburgh

While the Old Firm dominate, Hibs’ heritage and capital-city pull keep them among Scotland’s biggest.

Analysis: What Makes a Club ‘Big’?

What’s clear from The Forty Four’s rankings is that success alone doesn’t define greatness. Clubs like Sunderland, Leeds, and Portsmouth continue to punch above their weight in terms of fan engagement and cultural identity.

Meanwhile, Celtic and Rangers prove that size isn’t limited to England. Scottish football’s giants hold their own against Premier League juggernauts and continue to set standards at home and in Europe.

In short, the list isn’t just a leaderboard – it’s a love letter to the soul of British football.