In a landscape defined by social media metrics today, football isn’t just about what happens on the field, it’s also about who shows up online. And in Asia, these clubs are setting the standard, blending tradition with digital dynamism to write a new chapter in global football culture.
Al-Nassr, Saudi Arabia
Al Nassr, based in Riyadh, stands at the very top of Asia when it comes to social media influence. The club’s online prominence skyrocketed after Cristiano Ronaldo signed in late 2022. Today, Al Nassr boasts over 55 million combined followers across its main platforms.
Instagram (26.8 M), TikTok (17 M) and Facebook/X (combined ~11.5 M). This massive digital footprint now exceeds Saudi Arabia’s population and underscores the global appeal of their footballing project.
With Ronaldo’s star power, Al Nassr isn’t just dominating on the pitch, they’re rewriting the social media playbook in Asia.
Al-Hilal, Saudi Arabia
One of the most decorated clubs in Riyadh and beyond, Al Hilal’s history is matched by its modern media prowess. Second only to Al Nassr in the region, Al Hilal commands nearly 33 million followers, primarily on Instagram and TikTok, according to a 2024 AFC ranking.
Consistently winning AFC Champions League titles, the club attracts both domestic and international attention, making it a powerhouse in Asian football culture as much as on the pitch.
Persib Bandung, Indonesia
Persib Bandung remains arguably the most popular football club in Southeast Asia when it comes to social media. As of late 2023, the club boasted a staggering 25.51 million combined followers, dominated by Facebook, with Instagram and X also contributing significantly.
This translates into a massive and highly engaged fanbase, proudly reflecting the deep-rooted football culture in Bandung. Their digital strength stems not just from impressive content, but also star signings like Michael Essien and Carlton Cole, which enhanced global visibility.
Persija Jakarta, Indonesia
Persija Jakarta ranks among the top Asian clubs in digital influence, with around 12.21 million followers across various platforms, a testament to its historic fan base.
Thought to have grown further since then, Persija exemplifies how century-old clubs can thrive in the social media age, maintained by passionate support and a deep connection to Jakarta’s identity.
Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
JDT is the juggernaut of Malaysian football, and in recent years, social media too. As of 2022, the club had amassed more than 5 million followers across platforms, the highest of any Malaysian sports team.
Their passionate fanbase, known as the “Boys of Straits”, brings vibrant support to every game, fueling JDT’s unmatched digital engagement. This success reflects both the club’s strong domestic presence and its strategic use of social media to broaden its brand.
Muangthong United, Thailand
Muangthong United, called the “Kirin” (or “Twin Qilin”), leads the Thai League in social media followings, with around 3.68 million supporters across major platforms as of November 2024.
This figure makes them one of Thailand’s, and Southeast Asia’s, most influential clubs online. With a fusion of strong community outreach and engaging digital content, Muangthong continues to expand its fan base far beyond its home in Nonthaburi.
Buriram United, Thailand
In Thailand, Buriram United consistently ranks among the most followed clubs. With nearly 3.68 million followers across platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, they’re almost neck and neck with Muangthong United, the league’s top two social media presences.
Known for its professional operations, enthusiastic supporters and on-field success, Buriram has carved a reputation far beyond Thailand’s borders.
Kerala Blasters, India
Kerala Blasters is the social media powerhouse of Indian football. As of March 2024, the club’s Instagram alone had surpassed 3.7 million followers, the highest among Indian clubs.
It’s consistently ranked as one of Asia’s fastest‐growing football accounts, earning the distinction as the continent’s leading Instagram football profile.
Their digital success is driven by a flamboyant fan group (“Manjappada”) and a fervent, region-wide following that transcends win-loss records to reflect cultural passion.
Persepolis FC, Iran
While exact social media metrics are less transparent, Persepolis FC enjoys vast popularity in Iran and neighboring regions. Unofficial estimates place their fan numbers above 40 million domestically.
This deep reservoir of support undoubtedly translates into millions of digital followers, making them one of the most influential clubs in West Asia, though official platform figures are less accessible.
