As we move through 2026, the battle for dominance in the new millennium remains a two-horse race between West London and East Manchester. While Liverpool and Manchester United hold the most titles in total history, the 21st century (2001–present) tells a different story of shifting power.
Currently, Chelsea holds the title of the most successful English club of the 21st century, closely followed by Manchester City.
English Clubs: 21st Century Trophy Leaderboard (2001–2026)
The following rankings include major honors: Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup (Carabao), Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
1. Chelsea - 21 trophies
2. Man City - 20 trophies
3. Man United - 18 trophies
4. Liverpool - 17 trophies
5. Arsenal - 17 trophies
The "New Age" Power Shift
1. The Chelsea Consistency
Chelsea's lead is built on being "serial winners" regardless of the manager. They have won more European trophies (6) this century than any
other English side. Their most recent additions—the 2024 UEFA Conference League and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup—have kept them just one step ahead of Manchester City.
2. The Manchester City Surge
Man City didn't win their first major trophy of the century until 2011 (the FA Cup). Since then, their acceleration has been historic.
They have won more Premier League titles (8) than any other club since 2001. If they secure the league or a cup later this year, they are poised to tie or overtake Chelsea.
3. The "Legacy" Titans
Manchester United: Their tally is heavily weighted toward the first decade of the century under Sir Alex Ferguson. While they've added recent domestic cups (2023, 2024), they haven't won a league title since 2013.
Liverpool: Though 4th on this specific list, Liverpool remains the most successful club in overall history (70 trophies).
Their 21st-century haul is highlighted by two Champions League titles and the long-awaited 2020 Premier League crown.
The Verdict: Chelsea remains the "Trophy King" of the modern era by a narrow margin, largely due to their ability to win across every possible competition. However, with Manchester City’s current dominance, the leaderboard could look very different by the end of the 2025/26 season.