This is where in England fans are most excited about Premier League’s return

A new study by BetWright has revealed exactly where football fever is running highest ahead of the 2025/26 season. By analysing Google search data from over 50 cities and towns across England, the study identifies the places where fans are itching most for that first whistle.

The research focused on Google Trends activity over the past four weeks, zeroing in on popular football-related searches such as “When does the Premier League start?”, “Premier League fixtures”, and “opening weekend matches”. Each city’s search behaviour was scored and normalised to provide a percentage-based interest level, giving a clear view of where anticipation is peaking.

1. London – 95.0%

Unsurprisingly, the capital takes the crown as the most Premier League-obsessed city in the country. With an enormous 95% interest score, London’s football scene is bursting with excitement. Home to no fewer than seven Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Brentford, there’s always a match to watch and a rivalry to stir the pot. Whether it’s North London bragging rights or West London derbies, Londoners are counting down the days. With such a dense cluster of top-tier teams, it’s no wonder the capital leads the pack.

2. Manchester – 90.3%

Coming in a close second is Manchester, clocking an impressive 90.3% interest level. The city’s two Premier League heavyweights, Manchester United and Manchester City, have long been at the heart of English football’s biggest storylines, from historic trebles to modern-day dominance. With City looking to fight once again for their title and United aiming to close the gap, the stakes are as high as ever. It’s safe to say that Mancunians are more than ready to get the ball rolling once again.

3. Liverpool – 89.2%

Taking third spot is Liverpool with an 89.2% score, a city where football is stitched into the cultural fabric. Anfield and Goodison Park sit just a stone’s throw apart, home to Liverpool FC and Everton FC respectively, two of the most storied clubs in English football history.

4. Newcastle upon Tyne – 83.2%

Up in the North East, Newcastle has firmly re-established itself as a Premier League force and the locals are loving it. Scoring 83.2% in the study, the Magpies' loyal supporters are clearly ready for another season at St James’ Park. With Champions League football back on Tyneside and a squad full of ambition, there’s a new optimism in the Toon. Known for having one of the most passionate fanbases in the country, it’s no surprise Newcastle ranks this high.

5. Birmingham – 72.4%

Birmingham bags fifth place with a 72.4% interest rating and there’s a fresh sense of excitement in the air. Aston Villa are flying high after a strong campaign, with European football back at Villa Park. Their rivals Birmingham City might not be in the top flight, but that hasn’t dulled the region’s enthusiasm for the Premier League. In a city famed for its football heritage, the return of matchdays is something to savour.

6. Brighton – 70.7%

The Seagulls are soaring, and so is Brighton’s love affair with the Premier League. With a 70.7% interest score, the south coast city is basking in its club’s newfound success. Brighton & Hove Albion have made headlines in recent seasons with their attacking style and impressive finishes, earning European competition along the way. Locals are now used to seeing the Amex Stadium packed out and it seems they can’t wait to see what comes next.

7. Leeds – 69.8%

Back in the Premier League this season, Leeds United’s fans remain utterly devoted. The city posted a 69.8% interest score, showing that absence really does make the heart grow fonder. From the terraces at Elland Road to packed sports bars, football remains the heartbeat of this Yorkshire stronghold.

8. Leicester – 69.1%

Leicester may no longer be in the top flight, but the city still registers a hefty 69.1% interest in the Premier League’s return. It’s hardly surprising, the Foxes’ fairytale 2015/16 title win remains one of the most iconic moments in modern football history. As the club looks to bounce back to where it belongs, fans continue to follow the Premier League closely, keeping tabs on old rivals and dreaming of another magical run.

9. Sheffield – 68.3%

Sheffield sits ninth with a 68.3% interest score, which is not bad for a city with one team freshly relegated and another battling in the lower tiers. With Sheffield United spending last season in the Premier League and Wednesday holding court in the Championship, local fans are well-acquainted with the ups and downs of football. There’s always chatter around the Steel City about top-flight football, and it seems the appetite for Premier League action remains strong.

10. Southampton – 66.6%

Rounding out the top ten is Southampton, registering a still-impressive 66.6% interest level. Despite dropping out of the Premier League last season, Saints supporters haven’t taken their eyes off the top division. With hopes of a swift return and an eye on the competition, fans on the south coast remain as invested as ever. Whether it’s watching old stars thrive in new clubs or analysing how the team stacks up against potential rivals, Southampton remains a football city through and through.

Top 20 list of cities most excited about Premier League’s return: