Chelsea hold the Premier League single-season record for fewest goals conceded. In 2004/05, they let in 15 across 38 matches, with Arsenal's 17 in 1998/99 next on the list.
Who holds the record
Chelsea stand alone at the top of this category. Across the full Premier League record from 1992/93 to 2025/26, no club has bettered that total.
Arsenal sit next on the list. After that, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool share the same mark, and only one season sits at the lowest figure of all.
The lowest totals conceded in a Premier League season
Here are the lowest single-season goals-against totals in Premier League history.
| Club | Season | Goals conceded |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | 2004/05 | 15 |
| Arsenal | 1998/99 | 17 |
| Chelsea | 2005/06 | 22 |
| Manchester United | 2007/08 | 22 |
| Liverpool | 2018/19 | 22 |
| Manchester City | 2018/19 | 23 |
| Chelsea | 2006/07 | 24 |
| Chelsea | 2008/09 | 24 |
| Manchester United | 2008/09 | 24 |
How the top end is grouped
Chelsea have clear space at the top, with Arsenal as the nearest side to the record. The list then bunches together more tightly.
The next cluster comes at 22, shared by three clubs from different seasons. Manchester City follow next, and three seasons share 24, two of them Chelsea’s. Chelsea feature more often than any other club in this group.
Why the 42-match seasons are not at the top
Every total in this group came in a 38-match season. The Premier League had three 42-match seasons between 1992/93 and 1994/95, but none of them produced a lower figure.
The earlier format with more matches did not push the record down any further.
FAQ
Which Premier League club has the best defensive record?
On single-season goals conceded, the answer is Chelsea. Their 2004/05 campaign remains the lowest total in Premier League history.
How few goals can a Premier League team concede in a season?
The best mark so far is 15. Chelsea reached it in 2004/05, and that total came over 38 league matches.
Who has the best defence in Premier League history?
If the measure is the fewest goals conceded in one season, Chelsea hold that spot. Arsenal are second on 17.
Which other teams have come close?
Arsenal came closest with 17 in 1998/99. Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool have each posted 22, while Manchester City recorded 23 in 2018/19.