Ranking the Top 5 Biggest Derbies in the History of English Football

Ranking the Top 5 Biggest Derbies in the History of English Football

Isaac Darko
updated at February 19, 2024 at 10:51 PM
In this article:
Manchester United logo
Manchester United
England
30
Manchester City logo
Manchester City
England
26
Liverpool logo
Liverpool
England
45
Everton logo
Everton
England
33
Newcastle United logo
Newcastle United
England
42
  • From the very depths of English football, there are some great rivalries
  • The Meseyside derby is one of the most highly anticipated matches in English football
  • Sports Brief takes a look at the biggest derbies in English football

Football has plenty of thrilling games, but nothing is more exciting and adrenaline-pumping like derbies and rivalries.

It is why most soccer fanatics look forward to such matches every season.

Sports Brief finds out some of the biggest England's football derbies and rivalries that no one can miss.

Biggest derbies in English football

Manchester City vs Manchester United (Manchester derby)

Since the 2008 takeover, Manchester City's resurgence has elevated them to the forefront of one of football's most intense rivalries.

The animosity between players has been palpable, as evidenced by Mario Balotelli's memorable lesson in respecting Nemanja Vidic.

While some Manchester United supporters may argue that Liverpool is their fiercest rival, the drive to assert dominance in a football-obsessed city like Manchester leaves little room for anything else. This derby epitomizes the relentless pursuit of being the pinnacle in a city consumed by the beautiful game.

Everton vs Liverpool (Merseyside derby)

The clash between Liverpool and Everton, known as the Merseyside derby, is eagerly awaited in the English Premier League.

It consistently delivers on its promise, with goals and an electric atmosphere. Nevertheless, Liverpool maintains the upper hand as the most successful side in this fierce rivalry.

Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur (North London derby)

The North London derby sees two top-four contenders with passionate fan bases battling it out until one team emerges victorious.

This fixture holds immense significance for both Spurs and Arsenal supporters, occurring twice a year. The palpable rivalry and thrilling gameplay attract neutrals worldwide, eager to immerse themselves in the excitement.

A staggering total of 194 matches have been contested between the North London rivals, with numerous captivating encounters. This season's clash was no exception, delivering another riveting spectacle.

Newcastle United vs Sunderland (Tyne-Wear derby)

Although it's disheartening to witness two legendary English football clubs currently competing in different leagues, this situation does little to detract from the Tyne-Wear derby's esteemed reputation as the premier rivalry south of the border.

Despite both teams being evenly matched in derby wins, Newcastle edged ahead after securing a victory in the FA Cup, marking the first Tyne-Wear derby in eight years.

Sunderland supporters will be eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to retaliate.

Manchester United vs Liverpool (North-West derby)

Top in our list of English football's fiercest rivalries features the two most successful clubs in the Premier League.

Man United and Liverpool have shared their bitter rivalry for many years.

They play one of the oldest football derbies in the world. The North-West derby has also featured several football stars and best managers.

Authors
Isaac Darko photo
Isaac Darko
Isaac Darko is a La Liga, Ligue 1 and Bundesliga editor at Sports Brief with a Degree in Journalism and Communications from Ghana Institute of Journalism (2010)