7 EPL teams with the biggest fanbase in South Africa

South Africans are known for their unwavering support towards their local teams, particularly those in the Premier Soccer League. However, it’s not uncommon to witness their enthusiasm for and discussions about teams in the English Premier League as well. The reason behind the massive South African fanbase of certain EPL clubs lies in their strategic approach of recruiting talented African and South African players. Here are a list of the EPL teams with the biggest fanbase in South Africa.

1. Manchester United

Manchester United, the Premier League powerhouse, reigns supreme as the club with the largest following in South Africa. Established in 1878, this iconic team calls Old Trafford its home, a stadium that can accommodate a staggering 74,310 passionate fans.

With a remarkable global fanbase of 142 million, Manchester United supporters are renowned for their unwavering dedication and infectious enthusiasm. The club’s immense popularity in South Africa can be attributed to its remarkable achievements in the Premier League and the acquisition of one of the nation’s brightest stars, Quinton Fortune.

Manchester United’s numerous pre-season tours to South Africa have played a pivotal role in bolstering its fanbase and solidifying its status as a beloved team in the country.

2. Liverpool

Liverpool is one of the English Premier League teams that boasts a significant fanbase in South Africa. The club’s intense rivalry with Manchester United may be a contributing factor to its popularity in the country. Liverpool competes in the top tier of English football, known as the Premier League.

Established in 1892, the club became a part of the Football League the following year and has been playing its home games at Anfield ever since. Throughout its history, Liverpool has had numerous African players, such as El-Hadji Diouf, Momo Sissoko, and Sadio Mane. These players have played a crucial role in expanding the club’s following in South Africa and elevating its global popularity to a staggering 70 million fans.

3. Manchester City

Manchester City is a professional football club based in Manchester, England. The club is also widely supported in South Africa. Established in 1880 as St. Mark’s, the club underwent name changes before becoming Manchester City in 1894.

Competing in the Premier League, the highest level of English football, Manchester City plays its home matches at the Etihad Stadium, which can accommodate 53,400 spectators. Since clinching their first-ever English Premier League title in 2010, the club’s popularity has soared, amassing a global fanbase of over 20 million devoted supporters.

The club has also made significant signings from Africa, including Yaya Toure, Emmanuel Adebayor, and Riyad Mahrez.

4. Arsenal FC

Arsenal is a prominent English Premier League (EPL) team that enjoys immense support in South Africa. The team’s popularity soared during the tenure of Arsene Wenger, particularly after their remarkable achievement of winning the league in the 2003-04 season without a single defeat.

Situated in Holloway, North London, Arsenal competes in the prestigious Premier League, the pinnacle of English football. Wenger’s strategic approach of seeking talent internationally and scouting African players such as Kolo Toure and Nwankwo Kanu significantly contributed to Arsenal’s growing fanbase in South Africa.

Boasting over 90 million followers worldwide, Arsenal was established in 1886 and proudly calls the Emirates Stadium its home ground, accommodating a capacity of 60,704 spectators.

5. Chelsea

Chelsea Football Club, based in Fulham in West London, has garnered a significant following in South Africa. Although not the sole European team with a large fanbase in the country, Chelsea’s popularity soared after Roman Abramovich assumed ownership in 2003.

With substantial investments in top-tier players, the team achieved success in both local and European tournaments. The likes of Didier Drogba, Solomon Kalou, and Michael Esien played pivotal roles in propelling Chelsea’s popularity in South Africa. Established in 1905, the club calls Stamford Bridge its home stadium, boasting a capacity of 40,341.

With over 100 million fans worldwide, Chelsea Football Club competes in the Premier League, England’s premier football division. In 1955, the club secured its first major honor by clinching the League championship..

6. Tottenham Hotspur FC

Tottenham has managed to draw fans from various countries, including South Africa. Established in 1882, the club currently plays at the Tottenham Stadium, which can accommodate up to 62,850 spectators.

Known for their captivating and attacking style of football, Tottenham has garnered a global following, with South African fans being particularly appreciative of their gameplay. In an effort to promote international tourism, the South African government’s tourism board has even sponsored Tottenham Hotspur.

The club’s reputation as a prominent team further contributes to its growing fan base. Additionally, the presence of two South African internationals, Mbulelo Mabizela and Steven Pienaar, has also played a significant role in Tottenham’s popularity.

7. Everton

Everton FCis also another EPL team with a large fanbase in South Africa. Established in 1878, boasts a significant fanbase in South Africa and is among the top EPL teams in terms of popularity. With over 3 million global supporters, the club plays its home matches at Goodison Park, which can accommodate 52,888 spectators.

The team’s strong following in South Africa can be attributed to its association with Steven Pienaar, who joined Everton FC in 2007 and featured in 189 matches. Notably, Pienaar also served as the captain of the South African men’s national team during his time at Everton. Presently, in 2023, Pienaar holds the esteemed position of Everton’s international ambassador.