February 24 – Matchweek 26 proved to be a slower one for Premier League attendances, with stadiums averaging just 97.785% capacity – a drop from the season’s usual 98% standard. While strong performances from most clubs kept figures respectable, the usual underperformers once again weighed down the numbers.
Fulham and Southampton continued their season-long struggles at the turnstiles, joined by reigning champions Manchester City, whose attendance woes have become an unexpected trend.
On the flip side, Newcastle United once again proved their status as attendance kings, leading the way with a near-flawless turnout. The Magpies have been a constant presence in the 99% club this season, reflecting their fans’ impressive commitment despite an inconsistent campaign on the pitch. Joining them at the top this week were Arsenal and Aston Villa, both of whom continue to enjoy near sell-out crowds at their home fixtures.
However, it wasn’t all good news for the Gunners, not by a long stretch. Despite their strong support, Arsenal suffered a crushing setback to an already dwindling hope of becoming Premier League champions, failing to break down visitors West Ham in a must-win game. A first-half Jarrod Bowen goal sealed a 1-0 defeat, leaving Liverpool with an 11-point advantage at the top as Arsenal’s injury-hit squad struggles to keep pace.
Fulham, who have been cemented to the foot of the capacity tracker attendance ranking since the beginning of the season, comes as no surprise. The predictably poor attendance, standing at 93.95%, matched the performance of the home side, who failed to register a single shot on target as they lost 0-2 to travelling Crystal Palace.
Joining the Cottagers are Southampton (95.03%), whose wavering attendance can’t really come as a surprise as the team looks doomed to return to the championship come May. Following on from last week’s defeat to South Coast rivals Bournemouth, Juric’s side suffered another tough afternoon versus neighbours Brighton, conceding four without reply.
With Wolves grabbing a vital win over ten-man Bournemouth, Southampton’s gap to safety has stretched to 13 points. For reference, the Saints have only claimed nine points across 26 games so far.
Manchester City (96.35%) form the third team in the underperforming trio, whose attendances have comparatively fallen off a cliff this season. Recording a steady 98% average last campaign, where Pep Guardiola’s men clutched a fourth successive Premier League title – this season has told a very different story, and the stands reflect it. Since City’s form curtailed in November, the club have averaged 96% capacity – by far the lowest in the big six and the third-lowest in the Premier League this season.
Whilst they may be out of the title race, 20 points adrift of Liverpool after Sunday’s result, City’s on-pitch form may determine whether their fans return in full force—or whether the empty seats will continue to tell their own story.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1740409157labto1740409157ofdlr1740409157owedi1740409157sni@g1740409157niwe.1740409157yrrah1740409157