Once again this year, Barcelona (44.2 million*) is the most popular club in Europe. Real Madrid (41.0 million) and Manchester United (37.6 million) are the followers, even though the two Spanish clubs have lost fans whilst Manchester United gained fans. Champions League performances and broadcasting leagues affect the chart. As a result of the English clubs results in the UEFA Champions League, the Premier League clubs passed Spanish clubs and are now leading with 114.1 million European fans alltogether.

In addition, Zenith St. Petersburg gained 8.5 million fans after winning the UEFA Cup. It is remarkable to see that 4 russian clubs are in the Football Top 20, and that Chelsea gained 6 million fans last year (mainly from outside U.K.).

SPORT+MARKT also analysed the popularity of European clubs in Latin America. As expected, Spanish clubs are the most popular with Real Madrid and Barcelona leading the rank. Asia is closer to the English clubs and is a much more interesting market to exploit for them.

Read the complete report here.

Source: SPORT+MARKT