⚽️ Football is a way of life in London and this guide will help new Londoners pick a team to support.
If you're new to London or just starting to get into football, you may be wondering which London team to support. With so many options, it can be daunting to pick one.
These teams all play their football in London across the English leagues (from the top Premier League through to the lower League Two).
Arsenal FC is one of the most successful football clubs in London, having won 13 league titles and 14 FA Cups. They play their home games at the Emirates Stadium in Holloway, North London. Their red and white colours are seen across the world with their international fanbase. 'The Gooners' also have plenty of fan pubs across London where you can watch their games.
Tottenham Hotspur FC, also known as Spurs, is a North London team that plays its home games at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. They have won two league titles and eight FA Cups. Spurs have a brand new stadium, which is known as one of the best in the world that even has it's own brewery inside. They compete in the North London derby against fierce rivals Arsenal, you can't support both.
Fulham FC is a West London team that plays its home games at Craven Cottage. Their stadium sits on the bank of the river Thames and is known as one of the most beautiful and historic football stadiums in the world. Fulham fans have supported their team through ups and downs between the Premier League and Championship in recent years.
Chelsea FC is another popular London football club, with a strong following both in the UK and internationally. They have won six league titles and eight FA Cups, and play their home games at Stamford Bridge in West London. You won't have to look far to see their blue colours being worn around London.
West Ham United is a team that is deeply rooted in East London history. They have won three FA Cups and play their home games at the former Olympic stadium, London Stadium. West Ham wear claret and blue jerseys and are famous for blowing bubbles before their home games.
Crystal Palace FC is a South London team that plays its home games at Selhurst Park. While they haven't won as many titles as some of the other London teams, they have a dedicated fan base and are known for their attacking style of play. Two things that set Crystal Palace apart from the other clubs is that they have an eagle that flies around before games and American style cheerleaders.
Queens Park Rangers FC, also known as QPR, is a West London team that plays its home games at Loftus Road. For the last decade, QPR have played their football in the Championship (second division).
Leyton Orient FC is an East London team that plays its home games at The Breyer Group Stadium. Their largely cockney fan base bring a great atmosphere to their home games in East London. In recent years Leyton Orient have played in the lower divisions whilst designating their shirt sponsor to supporting local charities.
AFC Wimbledon is a South West London team that plays its home games at Plough Lane. The club was founded in 2002 by former supporters of Wimbledon F.C. after the Football Association allowed that club to relocate to Milton Keynes.
When it comes to choosing a London football team to support, there is no right or wrong answer. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you're looking for in a team. Here are some factors you may want to consider when choosing your team.
Do you want to support a team that is close to where you live or work? London is a big city so supporting your local team makes it easier to get to matches and immerse yourself in the atmosphere.
Is your favourite colour red? Do you love a design with some personality? Or is something simple and elegant your preference? You will see a lot of your team's jersey and colours making it an important factor in deciding if the club is for you.
Do you want to support a team with players from a specific country or nationality? Maybe your favourite national player plays for a London club.
Do any of your friends support a London football team? Supporting the same team as your friends will give you something to bond over and someone to go to games with.
Do you prefer a team that plays defensively or offensively? Every football team plays a different style of football, some you may find more enjoyable than others.