The English Premier League (EPL) is the most popular football league in the world. It is known for the levels of talent and skill on show, but it’s perhaps just as famous for the fierce rivalries that take place. These see what could quite be ordinary games being elevated to legendary status. While some of these rivalries are purely based on geography, others are based on history, culture, and decades of clashes between players and fans alike.
As the 2024/2025 season is nearing its conclusion, here’s a look at some of the rivalries that are certain to carry into the next, and beyond.
Manchester United Vs Liverpool
The rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool has to be one of the biggest in the English Premier League. Why? Well, when these teams go head-to-head, we are witnessing a battle between the two most successful clubs that the country has ever seen. When looking back at the Alex Ferguson era, Man Utd truly dominated the EPL, but recent times have seen Liverpool emerge as a dominant force. This started under the leadership of Jurgen Klopp and has continued with the appointment of Arne Slot.
Whenever these teams meet, there is attention from around the globe. Over the last three seasons we have seen Liverpool’s high press and front line clashing with the more transitional style favoured by Utd. This has led to games that are open and often unpredictable.
Arsenal Vs Tottenham Hotspurs – The North London Derby
The North London Derby is one of the most passionate and volatile derbies across the whole of Europe. With less than four miles separating the teams, the rivalry reached new levels when Arsenal made the move from south to north London back in 1913. Ever since that year, each match has led to each team looking to assert their dominance across the capital.
With Arsenal enjoying the second spot in the standings, so far, Tottenham find themselves struggling in the bottom half of the table. Arsenal have seen some real growth under the guidance of Mikel Arteta while Spurs seemed to show promise with Ange Postecoglou’s aggressive attacking approach. While there may be space between them in the table, when these teams meet the outcome is hard to predict. Perhaps unsurprisingly, epl betting odds fluctuate dramatically ahead of any fixtures.
Manchester United Vs. Manchester City – The Manchester Derby
The Manchester Derby used to be pretty much one way traffic, but this has certainly changed over the last decade. Once, it was Man Utd that fully dominated while City were seen as the underperforming neighbours, but the roles have now reversed. Pep Guardiola might not be quite enjoying a dream season, but it’s fair to say that he has taken City to new levels of success with multiple titles and a squad of world-class players.
The shift in dominance has only led to a heightened sense of rivalry between the two clubs. United are now desperate to reclaim their position as Manchester’s top team, while City are intent on taking more titles and trophies. Not many could believe the dramatic outcome of the derby that was streamed in 2011, where City demolished United 6-1. This was just the start of City’s show of power and fans on both sides continue to enjoy the thrill of these teams facing off.
Liverpool Vs Everton – The Merseyside Derby
There are few rivalries around the world that can come anywhere near the one that exists between Liverpool and Everton. These matches have a rich history and they are more than just a little emotionally charged. Often dubbed the ‘friendly derby’ as families and neighbours are often split between the clubs, the on-pitch action is far from being cordial.
Liverpool clearly have the edge when it comes to overall performance, and the gulf between the two clubs has widened. However, that doesn’t mean anything when it comes to derby day, where results are far from predictable. With Everton due to move to a new home, the club will be looking to turn the tables and become the leading club on Merseyside.
Why EPL Rivalries Matter
Of course, no matter which teams are up against each other, they both need the win, and they both want to achieve the top spot in the Premier League. However, when clubs with such intense rivalries come together, it becomes about so much more than the end of season finishing position. It’s about the here and now and getting one over the competition.
When these teams face each other, the performances shape the entire identity of the EPL. They bring an emotional element to football that just can’t be matched anywhere else. In fact, they go to prove that, as many will claim, football is much more than just a sport: it’s deeply personal.