“Tottenham at risk of relegation: When was the last time a ‘big six’ team was relegated?”

A Premier League, regarded as the richest and most visible domestic football league in the world, is synonymous with fortune and prestige. However, the prospect of relegation is a nightmare both competitively and financially. Currently, Tottenham Hotspur, one of England’s most iconic clubs, is on the brink, positioned in a concerning 16th place, just one point above the relegation zone, as they prepare for a decisive clash against Crystal Palace on March 5th.

For a club of such magnitude, listed as the ninth richest in the world by Forbes in 2025, the idea of relegation is almost unimaginable. But how realistic is this possibility? What is at stake for the Spurs as they face such an embarrassing fate? Let’s explore the recent history and understand the implications of relegation for one of English football’s giants.

**The Terrible Memories of Relegation: The Last Great to Fall**

The last time one of the clubs from the so-called “Big Six” was relegated from the Premier League was in 2001, when Manchester City, after a disastrous campaign, finished in 18th place. At that time, the club was not the financial giant we know today, prior to the capital injection from the Abu Dhabi group’s investment in 2008. City had also faced previous relegations, dropping to the third division in 1996 and returning to the Premier League after a tumultuous journey of promotions.

**Historical Relegations of Football Giants**

Since the league’s reconfiguration in 1992, only Manchester City has faced this bitter reality. They were relegated in 2001, after a critical defeat against Ipswich Town, finishing the season eight points adrift of safety. The manager at the time, Joe Royle, despite his attempts with significant reinforcements, could not prevent the drop. Salvation came in the form of Kevin Keegan, who rescued the club from the second division in a short period of time.

**Other Giants and Their Relegation Histories**

Chelsea, although it has a rich history over the last 20 years, has also experienced its ups and downs, with the last relegation occurring in 1988. Since then, under the leadership of Roman Abramovich, the club has transformed into a European powerhouse.

Tottenham, on the other hand, has not experienced relegation since 1977, when it fell under the management of Keith Burkinshaw, but quickly returned to the top. Manchester United, meanwhile, last faced relegation in 1974, a moment that swiftly turned into a triumphant return. Liverpool, one of the most traditional clubs, was last relegated in 1954, while Arsenal, with an impressive history, has not faced relegation since 1913.

**A Critical Situation for Tottenham Hotspur**

With Tottenham facing the imminent threat of relegation, the pressure is mounting. History shows us that big clubs can fall, but they can also rise again. The statements from Debrief regarding the current situation of the Spurs highlight the gravity of the moment. The fight for survival in the Premier League is intense, and history may be about to be rewritten if Tottenham fails to change its course.

With the upcoming match against Crystal Palace, every point counts, and the pressure on the players and the club’s management is palpable. What happens in the coming games could determine not only the future of the season, but also the legacy of one of the most respected clubs in English football.