Football is more than just a sport; it is a global passion that unites billions of people across continents. One of the most significant measures of a football club’s success is the number of trophies it has won over its history. Clubs with the most trophies are often regarded as the most prestigious and successful in the world, having not only excelled domestically but also competed and triumphed on international stages.
From domestic leagues to international tournaments, some clubs have accumulated an impressive number of titles across various competitions, cementing their place as footballing giants. This article delves into the biggest football clubs in the world by the number of trophies they have won, exploring their historical successes, dominance, and global influence.
1. Real Madrid (Spain)
Real Madrid is widely regarded as the most successful and prestigious football club in history, with a trophy haul that stands as a testament to its greatness. The club was founded in 1902 and has since accumulated an unparalleled collection of trophies.
Major Trophies:
- La Liga: 35 titles (as of 2025)
- UEFA Champions League: 14 titles (record)
- Copa del Rey: 19 titles
- FIFA Club World Cup: 5 titles
- UEFA Super Cup: 5 titles
Real Madrid’s most notable achievement is its success in the UEFA Champions League, where it holds the record for the most titles in the competition’s history. The club’s remarkable track record in Europe, combined with domestic successes in Spain, has helped it build a reputation as one of the world’s most dominant footballing institutions.
Real Madrid’s rise to global prominence started in the 1950s when the club, led by legends like Alfredo Di Stefano, dominated Spanish football and Europe. They went on to win five consecutive European Cups from 1956 to 1960, setting the tone for their future dominance. In the modern era, with players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, and Luka Modrić, Real Madrid has continued its rich tradition of winning, including their historic four Champions League titles in five years (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018).
2. FC Barcelona (Spain)
FC Barcelona, founded in 1899, is another footballing giant, both in terms of trophies won and global fanbase. Known for their attractive style of play, particularly their “tiki-taka” philosophy, Barcelona has built an illustrious history and has consistently competed with Real Madrid for supremacy in Spain and Europe.
Major Trophies:
- La Liga: 27 titles (as of 2025)
- UEFA Champions League: 5 titles
- Copa del Rey: 31 titles (record)
- FIFA Club World Cup: 3 titles
- UEFA Super Cup: 5 titles
Barcelona’s dominance in Spanish football is highlighted by their 31 Copa del Rey wins, the most by any club. Their achievements in the Champions League, especially in the 2000s and 2010s, marked the club as one of the best in Europe, with famous victories, including their 2009, 2011, and 2015 Champions League titles. Barcelona’s golden era, led by Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and Xavi Hernández, brought a unique brand of football that captivated the world.
The club’s “Mes Que Un Club” (More Than a Club) slogan reflects its identity as an institution that transcends sport, fostering a strong cultural and political connection to Catalonia. Despite recent challenges, Barcelona’s history of trophies and success makes them one of the most successful and influential football clubs in the world.
3. Manchester United (England)
Manchester United, founded in 1878, is one of the most successful clubs in English football history and has a strong global following. Their rich history and legacy are built on a series of remarkable triumphs, with the club winning numerous domestic and international titles.
Major Trophies:
- Premier League: 20 titles (record)
- UEFA Champions League: 3 titles
- FA Cup: 12 titles
- FIFA Club World Cup: 1 title
- UEFA Europa League: 1 title
Manchester United’s most significant era of success came under Sir Alex Ferguson, who managed the club from 1986 to 2013. During his tenure, the club won 13 Premier League titles, two UEFA Champions League trophies, and several FA Cups, making them a dominant force in both English and European football. United’s global brand grew tremendously during this period, with players like Ryan Giggs, Eric Cantona, Wayne Rooney, and Cristiano Ronaldo further enhancing the club’s global reach.
Manchester United’s success has been built on consistency and excellence, not just in domestic football but also on the European stage. Their three UEFA Champions League titles (1968, 1999, and 2008) place them among the most successful clubs in Europe.
4. Bayern Munich (Germany)
Bayern Munich is the most successful football club in Germany, with a rich history of domestic and international triumphs. The club, founded in 1900, has established itself as one of the top clubs in Europe, consistently competing for titles in the Bundesliga and in Europe.
Major Trophies:
- Bundesliga: 32 titles (record)
- UEFA Champions League: 6 titles
- DFB-Pokal: 20 titles
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2 titles
- UEFA Super Cup: 2 titles
Bayern Munich has dominated German football for decades, winning an incredible 32 Bundesliga titles. Their success extends to the European stage, where they have lifted the UEFA Champions League six times, including a historic treble (winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League) in 2013 and again in 2020. With players such as Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, and Robert Lewandowski, Bayern Munich’s success has spanned generations.
The club’s ability to consistently compete at the highest level, both domestically and internationally, solidifies their place as one of the biggest clubs in world football.
5. Juventus (Italy)
Juventus, founded in 1897, is the most successful club in Italy. Known as “La Vecchia Signora” (The Old Lady), Juventus has a storied history in Serie A, dominating Italian football for much of the past century.
Major Trophies:
- Serie A: 37 titles (record)
- UEFA Champions League: 2 titles
- Coppa Italia: 14 titles
- FIFA Club World Cup: 1 title
- UEFA Super Cup: 2 titles
Juventus’ remarkable consistency in Serie A, where they have won a record 37 league titles, sets them apart in Italian football. The club’s two UEFA Champions League victories (1985, 1996) highlight their ability to compete on the European stage as well. Juventus has been home to some of the greatest football players in history, including Michel Platini, Roberto Baggio, Alessandro Del Piero, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The club’s strong financial backing and global fanbase have helped them remain competitive at both domestic and international levels, ensuring they maintain their place among the most successful clubs worldwide.
6. AC Milan (Italy)
AC Milan, founded in 1899, is another Italian football powerhouse with a rich legacy in both Serie A and European competitions. Known for their strong defensive play and tactical approach, AC Milan is one of the most decorated football clubs in the world.
Major Trophies:
- Serie A: 19 titles
- UEFA Champions League: 7 titles (second-most in history)
- Coppa Italia: 5 titles
- FIFA Club World Cup: 1 title
- UEFA Super Cup: 5 titles
AC Milan’s success in European football is highlighted by their seven UEFA Champions League titles, the second-most in the competition’s history. Their European dominance, particularly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, cemented their place as a footballing giant. Players like Paolo Maldini, Franco Baresi, Kaka, and Alessandro Nesta are part of Milan’s rich history, and the club’s ability to compete on the international stage sets them apart.
7. Liverpool FC (England)
Liverpool FC, founded in 1892, is one of the most successful football clubs in England and Europe. The club has built a legacy of success through consistent performance in domestic and international competitions.
Major Trophies:
- English Premier League: 19 titles
- UEFA Champions League: 6 titles
- FA Cup: 8 titles
- FIFA Club World Cup: 1 title
- UEFA Super Cup: 4 titles
Liverpool’s resurgence in recent years, particularly under manager Jürgen Klopp, has reaffirmed the club’s position among the world’s elite. Their six UEFA Champions League titles place them in an exclusive group of European heavyweights. Legendary players like Steven Gerrard, Kenny Dalglish, and Mohamed Salah have all contributed to Liverpool’s history of success, ensuring they remain a key player on the global football stage.
Conclusion
The biggest football clubs in the world by trophies have earned their place among the sport’s elite through decades of success, hard work, and dominance in domestic and international competitions. From Real Madrid’s record-breaking UEFA Champions League victories to Bayern Munich’s relentless domination of German football, these clubs have shaped football history. The club’s ability to attract global fanbases and continue to compete at the highest level ensures their legacy will last for generations to come. Trophies are not just symbols of success; they represent the dedication, passion, and excellence that define the biggest football clubs in the world.
