This is a list of the richest football clubs in the world, ranked by Forbes magazine based on their valuation in U.S. dollars.
Football is more than just a game; it’s a global phenomenon that generates enormous revenue and has a massive fan following. Each year, we witness a battle of not just skills and talent on the field but also a race among football clubs to be crowned as the most valuable. In 2024, the rankings have once again shifted, and the list of the top 20 most valuable football clubs is here to showcase who reigns supreme.
Top 5 Most Valuable Football Clubs in 2024
1. Real Madrid – $6.6 billion
Real Madrid remains the king of football clubs for the second consecutive year. With a staggering value of $6.6 billion, the Spanish giants continue to impress with a 9% increase in their valuation. They have generated an enormous revenue of $873 million, solidifying their spot at the top.
2. Manchester United – $6.55 billion
Despite facing ups and downs on the pitch, Manchester United holds its position as the second most valuable club in the world. With a value of $6.55 billion and a significant operating income of $187 million, they maintain their prestige as one of the richest clubs globally.
3. Barcelona – $5.6 billion
Barcelona comes in third, with a value of $5.6 billion. Although they experienced only a 2% increase in value, their legacy and global fanbase continue to make them one of the most influential clubs in football. However, they reported a negative operating income of $145 million, reflecting some financial challenges.
4. Liverpool – $5.37 billion
Liverpool retains its position at number four, with a value of $5.37 billion. Despite facing stiff competition, the club experienced a 2% rise in valuation and generated substantial operating income of $102 million, indicating a strong financial footing.
5. Manchester City – $5.1 billion
Completing the top five is Manchester City, with a valuation of $5.1 billion. They have shown remarkable financial health with an operating income of $147 million and zero debt, proving that their investments have paid off handsomely
These top clubs represent not only sporting excellence but also financial success. Their ability to generate revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and merchandise sales sets them apart as the most successful brands in the football world.
Current Rankings.
| Rank 2024 | Rank 2023 | Team/Club | Country | Value in $ millions | % change on year | Debt as % of value | Revenue ($M) | Operating income ($M) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Real Madrid |  Spain | 6,600 | 9 | 15 | 873 | 76 |
| 2 | 2 | Manchester United |  England | 6,550 | 9 | 10 | 785 | 187 |
| 3 | 3 | Barcelona | Spain | 5,600 | 2 | 31 | 840 | -145 |
| 4 | 4 | Liverpool | England | 5,370 | 2 | 3 | 719 | 102 |
| 5 | 5 | Manchester City | England | 5,100 | 2 | 0 | 869 | 147 |
| 6 | 6 | Bayern Munich |  Germany | 5,000 | 3 | 0 | 781 | 84 |
| 7 | 7 | Paris Saint-Germain |  France | 4,400 | 4 | 2 | 754 | -126 |
| 8 | 9 | Tottenham Hotspur | England | 3,200 | 14 | 33 | 665 | 161 |
| 9 | 8 | Chelsea | England | 3,130 | 1 | 20 | 620 | 0 |
| 10 | 10 | Arsenal | England | 2,600 | 15 | 1 | 560 | 140 |
| 11 | 11 | Juventus |  Italy | 2,050 | -5 | 2 | 459 | 11 |
| 12 | 12 | Borussia Dortmund | Germany | 1,980 | 2 | 1 | 441 | 75 |
| 13 | 13 | Atlético Madrid | Spain | 1,600 | 4 | 7 | 382 | 20 |
| 14 | 14 | Milan | Italy | 1,430 | 1 | 0 | 405 | 81 |
| 15 | 17 | LAFC |  United States | 1,200 | 20 | 11 | 140 | 9 |
| 16 | 15 | West Ham United | England | 1,100 | 2 | 6 | 289 | 66 |
| 17 | – | Inter Miami | United States | 1,030 | 72 | 15 | 118 | 8 |
| 18 | 16 | Internazionale | Italy | 1,000 | -3 | 44 | 398 | 39 |
| 19 | 18 | LA Galaxy | United States | 950 | 3 | 0 | 95 | 3 |
| 20 | 19 | Atlanta United | United States | 900 | 6 | 0 | 95 | 9 |
Q&A
1. Which football club is the most valuable in 2024?
Real Madrid holds the title as the most valuable football club in 2024, with an impressive value of $6.6 billion. They have maintained their top position, showcasing their dominance both on and off the field.
2. How did Manchester United maintain its high value despite its inconsistent performance on the pitch?
Manchester United’s financial strength is driven by its global fanbase, lucrative sponsorships, and merchandising deals. Despite inconsistent performances, the club’s rich history and brand value make it a desirable asset, allowing it to retain a high valuation.
3. Why does Barcelona have a negative operating income despite being among the top three most valuable clubs?
Barcelona’s negative operating income of -$145 million can be attributed to high expenses, including player salaries and transfer fees, along with challenges related to debt management. However, their strong brand and global appeal continue to sustain their high valuation.
4. Which club has shown the highest percentage increase in value in 2024?
Inter Miami, a relatively new club in the United States, has shown the highest percentage increase in value with a staggering 72% rise. This significant growth highlights the growing popularity of football in the U.S. and the club’s strategic efforts to build its brand.
5. Which club has the least debt compared to its value?
Manchester City and Bayern Munich both have zero debt relative to their value. This exceptional financial management reflects their sustainable business model and prudent investment strategies, making them two of the most stable clubs in the world.
