Arsenal have been ranked the third-best football team in the world, according to a report by ESPN on October 30, 2026. The Gunners are among nine Premier League clubs named in the publication's top 20 list.

In the rankings compiled by ESPN journalist Ryan O'Hanlon, Paris Saint-Germain lead the list following their consecutive Champions League triumphs. Meanwhile, reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich are placed second.

Arsenal occupy third position despite concerns about their attacking performances. However, the difficulty of their Premier League fixtures and their impressive defensive record are considered in ranking the North Londoners. The Gunners are followed by Barcelona and Real Madrid. These Spanish giants are ranked fourth and fifth respectively. Meanwhile, Manchester City and Liverpool occupy sixth and seventh positions.

It should be noted that Brighton are the next-highest Premier League representatives outside the traditional leading clubs, occupying 10th position. The Seagulls have impressed in attack this season. They currently lead the English top flight in non-penalty goals despite missing key attackers Kaoru Mitoma and Yankuba Minteh through injuries.

Interestingly, Bournemouth are ranked 13th. This places them ahead of Italian giants Juventus, who occupy 14th position. Their recent victories over AC Milan and Manchester United were highlighted as evidence of their impressive performances.

Chelsea are placed 12th, while Aston Villa occupy 16th position. Brentford complete the Premier League contingent in 19th place, ahead of German side RB Leipzig.

According to O'Hanlon, the rankings are subjective assessments of how teams would perform against one another in 100 matches played on neutral grounds. The assessment also considers domestic league points, adjusted goal difference based on expected and actual goals, and the strength of opponents faced.