New research has uncovered which countries outside of England and Wales have produced the most Premier League players.
The Premier League is comprised of football teams from England and Wales, and draws players from all over the world.
Experts at Gambling ‘N Go analysed the nationalities of every footballer who has played in the Premier League since its foundation in 1992.
This was to determine which countries outside of England and Wales have produced the most top-flight players.
France provides the most Premier League players
At the top of the list is France, with a remarkable 234 Premier League players. Thierry Henry is among the most highly regarded French players. He was one of the Premier League’s most iconic figures during his time with Arsenal from 1999 to 2007, and briefly in 2012.
Known for his extraordinary pace and technical skill, Henry redefined the role of a forward. He played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s success, including their historic unbeaten season in 2003-04. Henry’s incredible goal-scoring ability earned him four Premier League Golden Boots, and he became Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer.
Scotland produces the second-most Premier League players
In second place is Scotland, with 217 players, including Darren Fletcher. Fletcher, who started his career as a Midfielder for Manchester United, made over 340 appearances for the team under Sir Alex Ferguson.
Fletcher played a role in securing five Premier League titles and contributing significantly to the team’s Champions League triumph in 2008. Beyond his club success, Fletcher earned 80 caps for Scotland, placing him among the country’s most-capped players, surpassed only by legends like Jim Leighton and Kenny Dalglish.
Republic of Ireland in third
The Republic of Ireland is third, producing 200 Premier League players, with one being Roy Keane.
Keane joined Manchester United as a midfielder in 1993, and then became the club’s first non-British captain in 1997.
Keane drove the team to numerous successes, including seven league titles and a historic treble in 1999. He has coached at several clubs since his retirement in 2005 and remains among Manchester United’s all-time greats.
Spain provides 165 Premier League stars
Next on the list is Spain, with 165 players having graced the English top flight. Among these players is David Silva, a maestro in midfield and a key figure for Manchester City from 2010 to 2020.
Renowned for his skill, Silva earned the nickname “El Mago” (The Magician). He was instrumental in City’s rise to prominence, helping secure four league titles and numerous domestic cups. Silva’s ability to control the game and create scoring opportunities made him one of the most consistent and admired players in the league.
The Netherlands features highly
In fifth place is the Netherlands, with 149 players. One of the best Dutch players to have competed in the league is Dennis Bergkamp.
Bergkamp joined Arsenal in 1995 and spent 11 years with them before he retired. He played a pivotal role in the club’s success, including their historic unbeaten season in 2003-04, where they finished with a record of 28 wins, 12 draws and no defeats.
Bergkamp played a part in winning three Premier League titles and four FA Cups in his time at Arsenal, scoring 115 goals in 416 games and leaving an indelible mark as one of the finest foreign players to play in the Premier League.
The Brazilians starring in the Premier League
With 115 players, Brazil ranks sixth.
Roberto Firmino ranks as the highest-scoring Brazilian player in Premier League history. A dynamic and versatile forward, he has been a key player for Liverpool since joining the league in 2015.
Firmino’s ability to link play and create opportunities has helped Liverpool secure major honours, including the league title in 2020 and the Champions League in 2019.
Portugal is next, with 92 players who have been in the Premier League. The nation has produced many well-respected players, including the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo. One of the most electrifying talents to grace the Premier League, he made a significant impact during his time with Manchester United from 2003 to 2009. Renowned for his exceptional skill, Ronaldo firstly played a crucial role in United’s dominance, helping them secure three Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2008. His skill also earned him numerous individual accolades, including his first Ballon d’Or in 2008.
Argentina and Italy in eighth and ninth
In eighth place is Argentina, with 84 Premier League players, including Sergio Agüero. One of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers, he played a crucial role in Manchester City’s success during his decade-long tenure with them from 2011 to 2021. His 184 league goals make him the highest-scoring foreign player in league history. Agüero’s unforgettable last-minute goal in 2012 secured City’s first league title in 44 years, cementing his place in football history. Overall, his contributions helped City win five Premier League titles, solidifying his legacy as a true Premier League legend.
Closely following Argentina is Italy, which has produced 83 players. Among these is Gianfranco Zola, who made a lasting impact in the Premier League during his time with Chelsea from 1996 to 2003. His ability to score spectacular goals and also provide crucial assists helped Chelsea secure two FA Cups, a League Cup, and a UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup. Also known for his sportsmanship and charisma, he is of the Premier League’s most beloved and talented players of all time.
The great Danes
Tenth is Denmark, with 80 Premier League players. One of the most famous Danish footballers is Peter Schmeichel, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in PL history. He also played for Manchester United from 1991 to 1999. His contributions were instrumental in securing five league titles, three FA Cups, and the historic treble in 1999, which included the Champions League. Schmeichel’s consistent excellence and charismatic personality made him a legend at Old Trafford and a benchmark for future goalkeepers
