Bayern Munich Have the Top Digital Media Presence in China, Ahead of Man Utd

Ramires' recent transfer from Chelsea to Jiangsu Suning illustrated the power of China in football's economy, and it turns out Bayern Munich are winning the battle for prominence in the country of 1.3 billion residents.

In the fifth annual Red Card report by Shanghai-based firm Mailman (via BBC Sport), the Bundesliga giants ranked the best in terms of their digital media presence in China, ahead of Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid in second, third and fourth respectively.

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The report analyses commercial success, engagement and social media in China, a market that has been unlocked by a government directive to promote international sport.

While the likes of Manchester United and neighbours City have the most social media followers in China, Bayern rank highly on "engagement."

Pep Guardiola's side played three pre-season games in China in July, and the Bundesliga is available in the country on a number of free-to-air channels.

Mailman's Red Card Top 12

1. Bayern Munich
2. Manchester United
3. Liverpool
4. Real Madrid
5. Arsenal
6. Barcelona
7. AC Milan
8. Tottenham Hotspur
9. Manchester City
10. Paris Saint-Germain
11. Chelsea
12. Atletico Madrid

[BBC Sport]