Spain has left its mark on the Europa League in the 21st century, with statistics from the last 26 editions strikingly illustrating the dominance of Spanish clubs. At the same time, the new season holds special interest for Greece, as Olympiacos and OFI will represent our country in the group stage of the competition.
From the 2000–01 season through the 2025–26 season, teams from Spain have won a total of 12 trophies—nearly half of all those awarded during that period. This is a feat that leaves all other European soccer powers far behind.
Sevilla, of course, has played a pivotal role in this impressive haul; it is the team that, more than any other, has linked its name to this particular competition. The Andalusians won the trophy in 2006, 2007, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020, and 2023. Atlético Madrid, with three titles, as well as Valencia and Villarreal, have also contributed to Spanish dominance.
England ranks second on this list with six titles. Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Aston Villa have kept the Premier League high on the list, with English clubs posing the greatest threat to Spanish dominance.
Portugal and Russia follow with two titles each. Porto won the trophy in 2003 and 2011, while CSKA Moscow and Zenit St. Petersburg gave Russia its own two titles.
The Netherlands, Ukraine, Germany, and Italy each have one title. Feyenoord was the Dutch champion in 2002, Shakhtar Donetsk won the trophy in 2009, Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022, and Atalanta in 2024.
The overall picture is impressive: of the 26 titles won during this period, 18 have gone to Spain and England, confirming the immense influence of these two countries in UEFA’s second-tier club competition.
For Greece, this season is particularly interesting. Olympiacos and OFI will both be competing in the League Phase, ensuring a dual Greek presence in the competition and the opportunity for a strong run against some of Europe’s top clubs.
*photo source: AP
