Which Premier League clubs have made only one appearance in the UEFA Champions League?

From Leicester City's remarkable 2016–17 campaign to Ipswich Town's impressive 2001–02 season, several Premier League clubs have experienced the UEFA Champions League just once. Join us as we delve into the unique journeys of these teams that made solitary appearances on Europe's grandest club stage.

Leicester City's Historic 2016–17 Champions League Campaign

Leicester City, defying all odds, clinched the Premier League title in the 2015–16 season, earning them a maiden voyage into the UEFA Champions League. Their debut in the 2016–17 season was nothing short of extraordinary.

Group Stage Performance

Drawn into Group G alongside FC Porto, FC Copenhagen, and Club Brugge, Leicester commenced their European journey with a commanding 3–0 victory over Club Brugge. Demonstrating resilience and tactical acumen, they topped the group with four wins, one draw, and a single loss, advancing to the knockout stages with confidence.

Knockout Stage Achievements

In the Round of 16, Leicester faced Sevilla FC. After a 2–1 defeat in the first leg, they showcased determination by securing a 2–0 win at home, progressing 3–2 on aggregate. Their quarter-final encounter with Atlético Madrid was fiercely contested; however, a narrow 2–1 aggregate loss concluded their admirable campaign.

Ipswich Town's Memorable 2001–02 European Adventure

Ipswich Town earned their spot in the 2001–02 UEFA Champions League by finishing fifth in the Premier League the previous season. Their European journey added a notable chapter to the club's history.

Qualification and Group Stage

Entering the competition in the third qualifying round, Ipswich faced Torpedo Moscow. A 1–1 draw in Russia, followed by a 1–0 victory at Portman Road, secured their place in the group stage. Placed in Group H with Inter Milan, Dynamo Kyiv, and Feyenoord, Ipswich delivered commendable performances, including a notable 1–0 home win against Inter Milan. Despite their efforts, they finished third in the group, transitioning to the UEFA Cup.

Blackburn Rovers' 1995–96 Champions League Foray

Blackburn Rovers, as Premier League champions in the 1994–95 season, embarked on their inaugural Champions League journey in 1995–96. Their participation, though challenging, remains a significant milestone.

Group Stage Challenges

Drawn into Group B alongside Spartak Moscow, Legia Warsaw, and Rosenborg BK, Blackburn faced formidable opponents. The campaign was marked by a mix of results, including a notable 4–1 victory over Rosenborg. However, internal challenges and fierce competition led to a group-stage exit, as they finished fourth with one win, one draw, and four losses.

Newcastle United's 1997–98 European Campaign

Newcastle United's second-place finish in the 1996–97 Premier League season granted them entry into the 1997–98 Champions League, marking a significant achievement for the club.

Group Stage Highlights

Placed in Group C with FC Barcelona, Dynamo Kyiv, and PSV Eindhoven, Newcastle's campaign featured memorable moments, notably a thrilling 3–2 victory over Barcelona at St James' Park, highlighted by Faustino Asprilla's hat-trick. Despite such highs, inconsistent performances saw them finish third in the group, leading to their elimination from the competition.

Leeds United's 2000–01 Champions League Journey

Leeds United's impressive third-place Premier League finish in the 1999–2000 season secured them a spot in the 2000–01 Champions League, where they embarked on a remarkable run.

From Qualification to Semi-Finals

Starting in the third qualifying round, Leeds overcame 1860 Munich to enter the group stage. In a challenging Group H with AC Milan, Barcelona, and Beşiktaş, they advanced to the second group stage, eventually reaching the semi-finals. Their journey concluded with a 3–0 aggregate loss to Valencia CF, but their performance remains a proud moment in the club's history.

What You Should Know About Premier League Teams with Single Champions League Appearances

• Leicester City: Premier League winners in 2015–16; reached the Champions League quarter-finals in 2016–17.
• Ipswich Town: Qualified for the 2001–02 Champions League; notable home victory against Inter Milan.
• Blackburn Rovers: 1994–95 Premier League champions; participated in the 1995–96 Champions League group stage.
• Newcastle United: Second place in 1996–97 Premier League; memorable 3–2 win over Barcelona in 1997–98 Champions League.
• Leeds United: Third in 1999–2000 Premier League; reached 2000–01 Champions League semi-finals