“EPL 2025/26: Top 10 Premier League Clubs Awarded the Most Penalties This Season”
A growing statistical trend in the 2025/26 Premier League season has brought renewed attention to penalty decisions, with several top flight clubs benefiting significantly from spot kick awards. As debates around officiating consistency and VAR interventions continue, newly compiled data highlights the teams that have been awarded the highest number of penalties so far this season.
Leading the rankings is Manchester City, whose attacking dominance and frequent presence in opposition penalty areas have translated into the highest number of penalties awarded. Close behind are Liverpool FC and Arsenal FC, both of whom have maintained aggressive offensive styles that often draw defensive fouls.
Traditional contenders such as Chelsea FC and Manchester United FC also feature prominently in the top five, reflecting their consistent attacking pressure and tactical play in the final third. Meanwhile, clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United FC continue to capitalize on fast transitions and counter attacks, contributing to their penalty counts.
Completing the top 10 are Aston Villa FC, Brighton & Hove Albion FC, and West Ham United FC, all of whom have shown tactical discipline and attacking efficiency that increase their likelihood of drawing fouls in critical areas.
Full List: Top 10 EPL Teams with Most Penalties (2025/26 Season)
Manchester City
Liverpool FC
Arsenal FC
Chelsea FC
Manchester United FC
Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle United FC
Aston Villa FC
Brighton & Hove Albion FC
West Ham United FC
Football analysts note that penalty statistics are often influenced by a team’s playing style, time spent in the opponent’s box, and the effectiveness of VAR in identifying infringements. While some critics argue that top clubs receive preferential decisions, data-driven assessments suggest that attacking frequency and ball control in dangerous areas are the primary contributing factors.
The increasing reliance on Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology has also played a pivotal role in penalty decisions this season. With more incidents reviewed and corrected, the number of awarded penalties across the league has seen a noticeable rise compared to previous campaigns.
As the season progresses, these figures are expected to evolve, potentially influencing title races, European qualification spots, and relegation battles.