Introduction
The English Premier League (EPL) is one of the most popular and fiercely contested football leagues in the world. With 20 teams from across England participating in an annual competition, victory is only achieved through a season-long grind. The EPL’s popularity has grown exponentially since its inception in 1992, with global audiences tuning in to watch in fascination. As a result, enormous revenue streams have been generated, gradually transforming clubs into multinational entities. In this article, we will explore some intriguing statistics, hidden gems, and the bounties of the Premier League.
The Foundations for Success
Winning the Premier League is no small feat. Staunch determination, exceptional talent, and tactical astuteness are requisites to make a mark on the competition. There have been several statistical peaks that clubs have historically needed to surmount on their way to glory.
- Points Accumulation
Since the Premier League’s inception, successful clubs have often breached the 80-point mark to claim the title. The 2018/19 season saw the highest points total for title winners, with Manchester City accumulating an impressive 98 points. Conversely, Manchester United secured the title with the lowest points total ever in 1996/97 – 75 points.
- Goals Scored and Conceded
Offense and defense are the two pillars of any triumphant Premier League team. On average, title-winning sides have scored approximately 80 goals per season, while conceding no more than 30-35. The 2009/10 season saw the highest number of goals from a title-winning side when Chelsea netted an astonishing 103 goals. Meanwhile, the 2004/05 Chelsea side holds the record for the fewest goals conceded in a season—only 15.
Hidden Gems: Intriguing and Less-Known Premier League Facts
While most spectators are familiar with the EPL’s popular storylines, several lesser-known facts and figures may pique the interest of football connoisseurs.
- Own Goals
Own goals can be the source of great anguish for players, management, and supporters alike. In an eyebrow-raising fact, own goals collectively hold the record for the 20th highest goal-scoring tally in Premier League history, having found the net more than 1,000 times.
- Goalless Draws
Contrary to the popular belief that goalless draws are infrequent and dull affairs, there have been, on average, over 30 goalless draws per Premier League season. The 2018/19 season was unique, however, as it recorded the smallest percentage of goalless draws in Premier League history – only 6.84%.
- Super Subs
Some substitutes have gained a reputation for their ability to impact the match as the game progressed. Among them, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer firmly entrenched himself in Premier League history by scoring an extraordinary four goals as a substitute in a single game for Manchester United against Nottingham Forest in 1999.
- Most Appearances by a Referee
Referees often go unnoticed, but their significance cannot be overstated. The legendary Mike Dean holds the record for officiating the most Premier League games, with over 520 appearances to his name.
Cashing in on Success: Revenue Generation
The growth and popularity of the Premier League have transformed it into a veritable goldmine for broadcasters, clubs, and sponsors.
- Broadcasting Revenue
As of the 2019/20 season, the Premier League domestic television rights were valued at £5 billion, with global rights exceeding £9 billion. Sky Sports and BT Sport hold live domestic broadcasting rights within the UK, while various networks have secured international rights.
- Club Revenue
Premier League clubs generate a significant portion of their income through broadcast revenue. For example, the 2018/19 season saw Liverpool receive £152 million, despite finishing in second place. In addition, clubs benefit from matchday income and commercial revenue. Manchester United stands out as the club with the highest revenue, achieving a £627 million turnover in the 2018/19 season.
- Sponsorship Income
Multiple sponsorship deals have emerged over the years, contributing to the league’s economic success. Shirt sponsorships alone generated more than £300 million in the 2019/20 season, with main sponsors ranging from fin-tech and airlines to tire manufacturers. The top shirt sponsorship deals include Manchester United with Chevrolet, Liverpool with Standard Chartered, and Manchester City with Etihad Airways, securing between £40 million and £64 million annually.
Conclusion
The Premier League’s illustrious journey has seen remarkable growth, both on and off the field. The feats of champions, fascinating statistics, and revenue generation have contributed to its enduring appeal, turning the EPL into a fascinating footballing spectacle. Over the years, the league has consolidated its position among the global sporting elite, which is, in part, due to the sheer passion and dedication of those who contribute to it. With innovations in football analytics and technology continually improving, the Premier League’s prominence is expected to soar to even greater heights in the years to come.