London is one of the biggest epicentres of football in the world. Not only does it house some of the biggest clubs and fanbases, it is also the city where the game really developed. It was here that the official rules of association football were first codified. This was done in the inaugural meeting of the English Football Association that took place at the Freemasons’ Tavern on Great Queen Street in the West End way back in 1861. The Laws of the Game were formally established here and the city has never looked back in terms of its importance in world football.
London is the home to more football clubs than any other city on the planet. London has also held massive tournaments and matches during the 1966 World Cup and the 1996 European Championships as well as the Wembley Stadium regularly hosting FA Cup and Champions League finals. It is also the home to a massive number of football clubs across divisions all of whom have their own fascinating stories.
Guide to Football Clubs in London
London currently has seven clubs in the Premier League. Although the number fluctuates, right now it is quite a high number. The clubs presently in the Premier League that are from London are Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Brentford. This makes for some very interesting derbies in the top division.
Who Is The Most Successful London Football Club?
There are three clubs that are widely regarded as the biggest and most successful clubs in London – Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. Over the last decade, Chelsea have won the most trophies out of these three sides. However historically it is the Gunners, who lead the way. They have won 48 trophies in their history, including 13 Premier League / First Division (the old name for the Premier League) titles. They’ve also recorded 14 FA Cup wins, two League Cup victories, and a record high 16 Community Shield wins. Chelsea have won 34 trophies in total – six league titles and eight FA Cups, alongside European success in the form of two Champions Leagues, two UEFA/Europa League trophies and a Club World Cup. Spurs are also laden with silverware on their own right with 26, including eight FA Cups and two First Division titles.
List of clubs in London
Arsenal
Arsenal were one of the founding members of the Premier League, and they’re one of only six clubs to have never been relegated from the top flight since the inception of the Premier League in 1992. The Gunners have lifted the trophy on three occasions, including once going unbeaten, all under legendary manager Arsene Wenger. Right now the club is managed by former player Mikel Arteta who has restored the good feeling among the club faithful and has them challenging for the titles again.
Chelsea
The Blues from the posh west London suburb went from being one of the most underperforming sides in the English pyramid to a proper superpower under the ownership of Roman Abramovich. They became one of the most successful sides in English, even winning continental trophies en masse. However since the Russian sold the club to American Todd Boehly, they have been a huge mess and are on a downward spiral.
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur are a storied English football club, which has a rich history dating back to 1882. The North London side has experienced periods of great success, including winning the FA Cup and League Cup multiple times. But in their recent history, they have barely won anything. However, recent years have seen a resurgence, with the club qualifying for the Champions League and consistently challenging for European places. Tottenham’s future appears promising, with a talented squad and manager as well as ambitious plans for expansion, aiming to cement their status at the top table of European football.
West Ham
West Ham United are a historic English club, who have a long-standing presence in the Premier League. The Hammers have an immensely passionate fanbase and have achieved notable success throughout their history, including winning the FA Cup, European Cup Winners’ Cup and the Europa Conference League recently. While recent seasons have seen a mix of results, West Ham have shown an upward trajectory. With a strong looking squad and a dedicated following, the club aims to continue climbing to the upper echelons of the game.
ALSO READ: Top 10 Signings in Chelsea History
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace are a club from South London with deep sense of community and culture. Their name is derived from the iconic Victorian glasshouse that once graced the area. While the club has experienced both highs and lows, they have consistently demonstrated resilience and a strong attachment to their roots. Crystal Palace has been a regular fixture in the Premier League in recent years. They are a solid midtable club who have a knack for great recruitment, particularly from their local area.
Fulham
Fulham Football Club are based in the London borough of Hammersmith and Fulham and was established way back in 1879. The club have experienced periods of both success and struggle, but like Palace, have always maintained a strong connection to its local community. Fulham has won the FA Cup and League Cup, and has also competed in European competitions in this century. In recent years, the club has yo-yoed between the Premier League and the Championship, but has recently seemed to establish itself in the top division.
Brentford
Brentford Football Club is a relatively young club compared to its London rivals, having been founded in 1889. Despite its shorter history, Brentford have made significant strides in recent years. The Bees have experienced a steady rise through the English football pyramid, culminating in promotion to the Premier League in 2020-21. Known for their rugged defending and a scientific approach to player recruitment, Brentford have established itself as a competitive force in the top flight. With a focus on developing young talent and maintaining a sustainable approach, the club aims to continue its upward trajectory and solidify its position in the Premier League.
Other than these too there are several London clubs in the English pyramid, from Watford and QPR in the Championship to Dagenham & Redbridge and Barnet in the National League.