The Top 5 Premier League clubs have the most fans in Africa

The Top 5 Premier League clubs have the most fans in Africa

Hassan Abdulsalam 12:10 - 07.12.2024

Where does your club rank among teams that have captivated fans with their on-field performances and engagement with African talents?

The popularity of Premier League clubs in Africa is immense, with several teams standing out due to their massive fanbases.

Here is a detailed overview of the top five Premier League clubs with the most fans in Africa as of 2023:

1. Chelsea

Chelsea is Africa's most supported Premier League club, particularly in West Africa. The club's appeal in Africa grew significantly after being acquired by Roman Abramovich in 2004.

Chelsea team training || Imago

The recruitment of African players like Didier Drogba, John Obi Mikel, Michael Essien, and Solomon Kalou, combined with their on-field success, played a crucial role in winning over many African fans​​.

In recent years, Chelsea have acquired the services of Senegalese star Nicolas Jackson alongside players of Nigerian heritage like Noni Madueke and Tosin Adarabioyo.

2. Manchester United

They are known as The Red Devils. Manchester United shares the spot with Chelsea as one of Africa's most popular European football clubs.

Manchester United celebrate the win against Chelsea
Manchester United celebrate the win against Chelsea at OT. (Photo Credit: Man Utd/X)

Their success under Sir Alex Ferguson, which includes 20 league titles and 3 UEFA Champions Leagues, along with stars like David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, has earned them a vast fanbase across the continent​​​​.

African players like Nigeria's Odion Ighalo, Ivory Caoast's Eric Bailly and Wilfred Zaha, Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco), and Cameroon's Eric Djemba-Djemba have donned the famous red colours of Manchester United. Currently, they have goalkeeper André Onana (Cameroon) and Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast) playing regularly for Ruben Amorim's side.

3. Arsenal

Arsenal's popularity in Africa, especially in East Africa, surged during their 'Invincibles' season in 2003-04.

Arsenal defensive pairing || Credit: X

The club's style of play and its signing of African players such as Nwankwo Kanu and Emmanuel Adebayor have helped maintain a strong following despite their recent struggles​​​​.

4. Liverpool

Liverpool has a long history of support in Africa. The club's recent successes, including winning the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, have reinvigorated their fan base.

Liverpool fans || Imago

The presence of players like Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane has also significantly increased their following across the continent​​​​.

5. Manchester City

Manchester City has recently gained a significant following in Africa. Their transformation into one of England's top teams, under the ownership of the Abu Dhabi Royal Family, has attracted many fans.

Man City wins Club World Cup || Imago

The team's success in domestic and European competitions and the presence of former African stars like Yaya Toure and Riyad Mahrez have contributed to their growing popularity​​​.

These clubs have captivated fans with their on-field performances and engagement with African talents, further strengthening their connections with the African football community.

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