The European football season is over, culminating with Real Madrid’s victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium. Los Blancos prevailed 2-0 to win their 15th Champions League title, and while the Premier League odds had champions Manchester City to reach the final on home soil, they were knocked out by Madrid but still able to pick up a fourth consecutive domestic trophy.
The 2023-24 season was particularly competitive, with some of Europe’s best teams enduring transition periods, allowing sides to flourish in their respective leagues and compete in Europe, but which league in Europe stands above the rest?
Traditionally, there have been five leagues that have ruled the roost as far as the Champions League is concerned, but the recent form of teams means a change in the rankings between them. In this article, we’ll be comparing Europe’s top five leagues based on how they have performed in recent times. Read on to find out more.
5) Ligue 1
Starting with France, Ligue 1 has some quality players but has been guilty of being a one-sided affair since Paris Saint Germain’s takeover in 2010-11. Since then, only Monaco and Nice have been able to dethrone the Parisians, who tend to dominate with superstars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and Lionel Messi plying their trade at the Parc des Princes.
4) Bundesliga
For the first time in 11 years, Bayern Munich were unable to retain the Bundesliga thanks to Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen, who won the league unbeaten to break several records in German football.
It’s the first time Leverkusen have ever won the league, and it arrived a perfect time for the competition, with the likes of Hannover and Schalke struggling at the bottom of the table and in the second division. The likes of RB Leipzig and Dortmund always provide entertainment too, renowned for developing the best talent in the country.
3) Serie A
Italian football demonstrated its resurgence this season, with Inter winning Serie A, and Atalanta winning the Europa League against the odds. Fiorentina also reached the UEFA Conference League final, ensuring the Italians have nine European spots for next season, allowing sides like Thiago Motta’s Bologna to compete with the best on the continent. While Juventus and AC Milan are still rebuilding their squads, it will only make the league more exciting when they are back to full strength.
2) La Liga
While the Spanish top flight is often split between three teams at the top, this La Liga campaign felt unique as Barcelona’s financial troubles and Atletico Madrid’s ageing squad allowed others to remain competitive. The surprise package was Girona, who under the guidance of young manager Míchel were able to challenge for the title.
Ultimately, they were unable to dethrone Real Madrid but a third-place finish means they will play in the Champions League. Athletic Bilbao also won their first Copa Del Ray, sending raptures through the Basque Country.
1) Premier League
The Premier League stands head and shoulders above the rest of the leagues in Europe due to its variety of top teams and competitive nature. While City have controlled proceedings in recent years, there are plenty of angles to fall in love with the Premier League, from the passionate fans to the unique stadiums, the international superstars to the big derby days. Next season could be the last for Pep Guardiola, and with Liverpool and Chelsea under the guidance of new managers Arne Slot and Enzo Maresca, it could be an exciting title race in England.
