Following a Premier League club this season could cost fans as much as £5,000 for away matches, according to new data. This estimate includes match tickets, travel, food, and a replica jersey, highlighting significant financial barriers for supporters.
Bournemouth emerged as the most expensive club, with fans needing to spend an estimated £4,911.61 to follow the team home and away without a season ticket. This figure is attributed partly to the club's geographical location, which increases travel expenses, alongside the costs of food and merchandise.
Sunderland and Newcastle also rank high on the list due to similar geographic factors leading to substantial travel costs. In contrast, Brentford is identified as the most affordable club to follow, with a season ticket package totaling £2,827.26, which still accounts for travel, food, and beverages.
Among the traditional 'Big Six' clubs, Arsenal is the most expensive to follow, ranking fourth overall. Supporting the Gunners home and away with a season ticket is estimated at £3,748.56, rising to £4,349.06 without one.
Other 'Big Six' teams present comparatively lower costs. Tottenham, despite having the second-highest ticket prices after Arsenal, ranks ninth overall due to London's extensive public transport network. Manchester United is 12th, Liverpool 14th, Chelsea 16th, and Manchester City 17th, offering what is considered better value for money. City fans can expect to pay £3,059.22 with a season ticket and £3,424.22 without.
The data also breaks down costs for individual items. Hull offers the cheapest pies at £3, while Arsenal charges the highest at £8.85. For drinks, Ipswich provides the most affordable pints at £3.50, with Arsenal again being the most expensive at £6.80 per pint.
Replica kits also contribute to the overall expense, with Hull offering the most affordable at £64. Tottenham and Chelsea are at the higher end, with replica shirts costing £90 and £89.99 respectively.
Overall, the average cost for a fan to follow a Premier League club, including a season ticket, travel, food, drinks, and a replica kit, is approximately £3,450.56. This figure increases to £3,902.44 when not factoring in a season ticket.
These costs come amidst ongoing concerns about ticket prices and rail fare increases. Furthermore, fans wishing to watch every Premier League game via broadcast platforms in the UK face an additional £730 expense, a stark contrast to services in other regions like Singapore, where all matches are available for a monthly fee of approximately £25.