As the cold of winter takes over the Premier League, the optimism that accompanied the summer sun is quickly fading. With the league table exceptionally tight this season (just six points separate fifth from 15th place), it remains a challenge to gauge the feelings of various clubs and their supporters. The current state of the league highlights how quickly fortunes can change; A series of wins can propel teams from the precipice of relegation into contention for European competition, while consecutive defeats can plunge ambitious clubs into the relegation zone.
In a creative twist to measuring fan satisfaction, The Athletic has produced a “Happiness Chart,” which measures the mood within each club’s fan base without the complexities of statistical jargon.
Starting with the clubs experiencing the most joy, Sunderland tops the list. After recording six wins and amassing 22 points, they sit sixth in the table, a far cry from their struggles of recent seasons which were captured in the documentary ‘Sunderland ‘Til I Die’. The transformation is palpable and ignites a feeling of hope and pride among fans.
They are closely followed by Arsenal, who are five points clear in the Premier League and are enjoying a good run with just one defeat in their last 20 games. The atmosphere among fans is charged with positivity as the club contemplates a possible return to glory.
Chelsea also find solace in their current position, third in the table. After some difficult games earlier in the season, they have bounced back impressively, delighting their fans by defeating Barcelona and putting up a strong fight against Arsenal.
Aston Villa have experienced a remarkable resurgence, moving from relegation danger to fourth place in the league, racking up five consecutive victories. Coach Unai Emery attributes the team’s newfound confidence to the passionate support of the fans.
Brentford, although previously expected to struggle, have held firm and currently sit in mid-table. His performance early in the season has surprised many, adding 19 points in 13 games.
Brighton & Hove Albion have also made the news, moving into fifth place thanks to a recent improvement in form. Coach Fabian Hurzeler has highlighted their cohesive team spirit as the driving force behind their success.
Nottingham Forest’s form remains a mixed bag, with just two league wins to date leaving them just above the relegation zone. Still, his supporters have demonstrated resilience, clinging to the optimism instilled by recent management strategies.
In mid-table, Manchester City is going through some turbulence despite occupying second place in the league. Their performances have not had the resounding impact expected of the current champions, which has created a palpable sense of unease among fans.
Newcastle United have rejuvenated their season with recent victories, including a notable victory over Manchester City, which has significantly improved the mood.
For Fulham, some wins have offered a glimmer of hope as they steadily move away from relegation concerns, aiming to secure a stronger position for the remainder of the season.
Manchester United find themselves in the top half of the table, but with a sense of wavering optimism; Past disappointments make fans wary of fully accepting their current form.
At the other end of the happiness spectrum, clubs encounter varying levels of dissatisfaction. Bournemouth’s stagnation under Andoni Iraola highlights their struggles, with fans becoming increasingly frustrated.
Crystal Palace sit uncomfortably in ninth place, buoyed by early progress but destabilized by concerns over the future direction of the club under the current management.
Everton’s recent defeat to Newcastle has left a bitter taste, even as they managed to break a long-standing curse at Old Trafford.
Liverpool, who recently found a small upturn in spirit after a victory, remain anxious as they try to regain their footing this season.
Despite a series of poor performances, Burnley fans are showing signs of discontent with management, expressing a desire to make drastic changes early in the season.
Leeds United find little joy in their current form, echoing the frustrations of their supporters who are increasingly tired of disappointing results.
West Ham United are temporarily out of the relegation zone but are plagued by general apathy and frustration towards the current owners.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are languishing at the bottom of the league table and in happiness, failing to record a win this season, setting alarm bells ringing among their fan base.
Lastly, Tottenham Hotspur is in turmoil, struggling with internal conflicts and a lack of cohesion on and off the field. With only three home wins in more than 20 games, frustration is decidedly evident among fans who continue to pay high ticket prices for disappointing performances.
As the season progresses, fluctuating levels of happiness between clubs reveal the rollercoaster of emotions that defines Premier League football.
