Italy’s Serie A is home to some of the most decorated clubs in world football. With countless titles, fierce rivalries, and legendary players, these clubs have shaped not only Italian football but also the broader European landscape.
From Juventus FC’s dominance to Napoli’s recent resurgence, each of these clubs carries a story of triumph.
In this article, we explore the top Italian football teams that have reigned supreme through history, ranked by their trophy hauls, consistency, and global impact.
Criteria for Success
This ranking isn’t based only on Serie A titles. We considered the following factors:
- Domestic Success: Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Supercoppa Italiana wins.
- International Performance: Achievements in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.
- Club Legacy and Influence: Historical moments, iconic players, and fanbase reach.
- Consistency and Growth: Clubs that thrived over multiple decades.
The table below compares the major trophies won by these Italian football giants.
| Club | Serie A Titles | UEFA Champions League | Coppa Italia | FIFA Club World Cup | Total Trophies |
| Juventus FC | 36 | 2 | 14 | 2 | 70 |
| AC Milan | 19 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 50 |
| Inter Milan | 19 | 3 | 8 | 3 | 41 |
| AS Roma | 3 | 0 | 9 | 0 | 13 |
| SS Lazio | 2 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 16 |
| Torino FC | 7 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 12 |
| Genoa C.F.C. | 9 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 10 |
| Bologna FC | 7 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 11 |
| ACF Fiorentina | 2 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 9 |
| SSC Napoli | 3 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 15 |
SSC Napoli
Nicknamed Gli Azzurri (The Blues), SSC Napoli became a footballing powerhouse in the 1980s with Diego Maradona leading them to two Serie A titles and a UEFA Cup win.
Their recent 2023 Serie A triumph marked a revival, cementing their place among Italy’s elite. Stadio San Paolo, now renamed Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, continues to host passionate fans.
ACF Fiorentina
Known as the Viola (The Purple), ACF Fiorentina has had a rich history, including winning two Serie A titles and several Coppa Italia trophies. Despite limited European success, Fiorentina reached the European Cup final in 1957.
Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence remains their fortress, where they’ve nurtured talents like Gabriel Batistuta.
Bologna FC
I Rossoblu (The Red-Blues) dominated Italian football during the pre-WWII era, winning seven Serie A titles and a Coppa Italia.
While their success has waned in recent decades, Stadio Renato Dall’Ara still celebrates their rich heritage and remains a challenging venue for opponents.
Genoa C.F.C.
As Italy’s oldest club, Genoa C.F.C. made history by winning nine national titles, primarily in the early 1900s. Known as Il Grifone (The Griffin), Genoa has struggled to replicate past glories, but Stadio Luigi Ferraris and their loyal fanbase keep their legacy alive.
Torino FC
Il Toro (The Bull) was synonymous with success during the 1940s, thanks to the legendary Grande Torino team.
Their tragic demise in the Superga air disaster left an indelible mark on Italian football. With seven Serie A titles and five Coppa Italia wins, Torino remains a respected name in Italian football history.
SS Lazio
I Biancocelesti (The White and Sky Blues) have built a strong identity with two Serie A titles and several domestic cup wins.
Their greatest European success came in the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup. Lazio’s passionate fanbase fills Stadio Olimpico during every Rome Derby against AS Roma.
AS Roma
I Giallorossi (The Yellow-Reds) have always been contenders, winning three Serie A titles and nine Coppa Italia trophies.
Recent European success came in 2022 when they won the UEFA Conference League. Stadio Olimpico in Rome serves as their home ground, shared with Lazio.
Inter Milan
With 19 Serie A titles, Inter Milan has maintained consistent success throughout its history. Known for their treble victory in 2010 under José Mourinho, which included the UEFA Champions League, Serie A, and Coppa Italia, Inter is a true powerhouse.
San Siro stadium is the stage for their epic clashes with AC Milan.
AC Milan
AC Milan has established itself as a European giant with seven Champions League titles, the most of any Italian club.
With a legacy that includes legends like Paolo Maldini and Kaká, Milan remains a dominant force. Their FIFA Club World Cup victories further solidify their global reputation.
Juventus FC
At the top of Italian football is Juventus FC, boasting 36 Serie A titles, 14 Coppa Italia wins, and 2 Champions League trophies.
As a founding member of the G-14 and one of the most consistent clubs in European competitions, Juventus stands as the pinnacle of Italian football. Turin’s Allianz Stadium witnesses the passion of their supporters each season.
Key Rivalries that Shaped Italian Football
- Derby della Madonnina: AC Milan vs. Inter Milan
- Derby d’Italia: Juventus FC vs. Inter Milan
- Rome Derby: AS Roma vs. SS Lazio
These rivalries have produced some of the most intense matches, influencing Italian football’s narrative for decades.
Influence on European Football
Italian clubs have left a lasting legacy on European competitions, contributing to some of football’s most iconic moments.
Teams like AC Milan and Juventus have led Italy to multiple UEFA Champions League wins, while clubs like Inter Milan achieved international fame with treble-winning seasons.
Infographics: Italian Clubs’ Success at a Glance
- Juventus FC: 36 Serie A titles
- AC Milan: 7 UEFA Champions League victories
- Inter Milan: 3 Champions League titles
FAQs About the Most Successful Italian Football Clubs
Q. Which Italian club has won the most Serie A titles?
- Juventus FC with 36 titles.
Q. Which club has the most Champions League trophies?
- AC Milan with 7 UEFA Champions League titles.
Q. Which is the most popular football club in Italy?
- Juventus FC, with the largest fanbase domestically and internationally.
Q. What is the biggest rivalry in Italian football?
- The Derby della Madonnina between AC Milan and Inter Milan.
Conclusion
Italian football clubs have built a legacy of triumph, from Juventus FC’s dominance to AC Milan’s European glories.
As these clubs continue to evolve, their influence on the footballing world remains strong.
This deep dive into the most successful Italian football clubs highlights not only the trophies won but also the heart and soul that make these teams legends.
Ethan Richards is a dedicated sports writer who excels in delivering timely and accurate sports news. His meticulous research and clear, concise writing make his articles both informative and enjoyable. Ethan’s commitment to quality journalism sets him apart in the industry.
