One in five fans of the Premier League consume fan-created media online, according to a detailed study into the subject. Youtube has provided a platform for supporters of all clubs to create their own channels and content regarding the fortunes of their respective teams – featuring all the highs and the lows.
No channel has been more successful than ArsenalFanTV aka AFTV, who have mustered 980,000,000 views to date. Creator Robbie Lyle has enjoyed great success by placing his microphone in front of a selection of dedicated Arsenal fans and allow them to sound off before letting the internet do the rest.
American Gambler have discovered, using information from Social Blade, that AFTV commands an estimated £1.2m ($1.7m) in revenue from advertising alone. Lyle is aided by the fact that the Gunners are one of the most popular teams in the world and play at least 50 matches per season.
Personalities have also played a significant role in the rise of the channel, and why it remains so popular. So much so that a popular fan pundit nicknamed Troopz has managed to branch off and form his own successful channel. It may not be as popular as AFTV, but in terms of revenue, he places third on the list earning a reported £175,000 ($239,000) in ad revenue.
AFTV has provided the blueprint for other fan-created channels to provide the same coverage at their respective club. Teams across the Premier League and down the tiers of English football more often than not have their own-dedicated fan channel or channels.
Anfield Agenda has capitalized on the trend, enjoying a 103% rise in subscribers over the last year. It has been aided by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the need for fans to hear and voice their views amongst like-minded people, who are unable to travel to stadiums and the pub. They’re not alone as WeAreTottenham TV and All Leeds TV have also enjoyed a major spike in their numbers.
There is certainly a lot of money to be made for football fan creators if they are able to crack the formula of success.
