One day at the Cityzens

In some parts of the world, soccer is still the king of sports, and after much reflection it's official: I'm looking into this famous question as to why people are so electrified by this sport. After having had the chance to experience one of Latin America's most beautiful derbies in Brazil last April, I'm off again to discover British soccer.

The English Premier League is world-renowned not only for the quality of the soccer on the pitch, but also for the electrifying atmosphere that surrounds every matchday. This spectacle, where passion, culture and tradition meet, creates an unrivalled experience for local and international fans alike. But what makes this atmosphere so unique?

1. The connection between clubs and local communities

Every Premier League club is deeply rooted in its community. Whether it's historic clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United, or newer ones like Brighton, these teams often reflect the values, traditions and identity of their towns and cities. Fans go to the stadium knowing that they are part of a long history, often handed down from generation to generation. Clubs' involvement in local initiatives further strengthens this bond. This sense of belonging amplifies the emotion felt at every match.

2. Fan songs and traditions

Another distinctive element of the Premier League atmosphere is undoubtedly the fans' singing. Each team has its own anthems and songs, which are sung at the top of their voices throughout the match. From iconic songs like “You'll Never Walk Alone” at Anfield to “Blue Moon” at the Etihad Stadium, these anthems are an integral part of the club's identity. These songs create a symbiosis between fans and players, where the support of the fans can sometimes galvanize a team, even in the most difficult moments of the match.

3. Iconic stadiums

Premier League stadiums such as Old Trafford, Stamford Bridge and the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium are modern, yet intimate arenas. Unlike some massive, impersonal European stadiums, English stadiums, though renovated, often retain this proximity between the stands and the pitch. This gives fans a close-up view of the action and allows them to feel every moment of the match intensely, fostering a vibrant atmosphere.

4. A spectacle before, during and after the match

The experience of a Premier League match starts long before kick-off, and you've got to hold on tight... The pubs around the stadiums fill up with fans several hours before the match, in a friendly, lively atmosphere. Inside the stadiums, clubs increasingly rely on technology and entertainment to keep fans' attention, even during breaks. What fascinated me at City was that three minutes before kick-off, the stadium was perfectly empty, and by the time the players took to the pitch, it was packed to the rafters.

After the match, whether the team has won or lost, the atmosphere often continues in the bars or on the streets, where supporters discuss the match in a festive atmosphere.

5. An international dimension

While the Premier League remains rooted in its British culture, it has also opened up to the world, welcoming players and coaches of various nationalities, as well as attracting a global audience. On match days, it's not uncommon to see tourists from all over the world in the stadiums, coming to watch this mythical spectacle. This international influx doesn't dilute the atmosphere, but adds an extra layer of excitement. I've seen people from Paraguay, from China...

Whether it's the singing, the stadiums, or the deep connection between fans and their team, the Premier League matchday experience remains a model of excellence for leagues the world over.