Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, Robert Lewandowski

15 Best Strikers in World Football – Ranked

July 27, 2025 Oliver Obel

Finding the back of the net is the most difficult and valuable skill in football. These 15 players stand out as the top strikers in the world right now, ranked by their scoring records, influence, and all-round performances. Starting from number 15, here's a rundown of the elite goal-getters lighting up the global game.

15. Hugo Ekitike – Liverpool

Once overlooked at PSG, Hugo Ekitike has now become Liverpool's new number nine. After a breakout season with 22 goals and 12 assists in Germany, the dynamic Frenchman is ready to thrive in the Premier League under Arne Slot.

14. Marcus Thuram – Inter Milan

A free transfer that proved golden, Marcus Thuram has shone in Italy for Inter. Whether through the middle or from the left wing, he adds both goals and creativity to a title-challenging side.

13. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr

Even at 40, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a force, topping the global scoring charts in 2023 with 54 goals. His output in Saudi Arabia may come under scrutiny, but his all-time numbers are simply staggering.

12. Serhou Guirassy – Borussia Dortmund

Guirassy took Europe by storm with his 13-goal Champions League campaign, the highest in the competition. His 47 goal contributions in 50 games have made him a lethal presence for BVB.

11. Ollie Watkins – Aston Villa

Watkins has flourished under Unai Emery, leading Villa to their first Champions League appearance in over 40 years. With 162 goals and 74 assists in his club career, he continues to be a key man in England’s top flight.

10. Victor Osimhen – Napoli

Victor Osihmen — Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com

After powering Napoli to a Serie A title, Osimhen had a successful spell in Turkey and now nears a permanent Galatasaray move. His blend of pace, power, and aerial threat make him a complete centre-forward.

9. Omar Marmoush – Manchester City

From Eintracht Frankfurt to Manchester City, Marmoush's rise has been rapid. Guardiola sees in him the perfect support for Haaland – a smart, physical striker who excels with his back to goal.

8. Julian Alvarez – Atletico Madrid

Now the main man at Atletico, Alvarez has flourished since leaving Manchester City. With 119 goals and 58 assists already, he’s evolving into a top-tier forward in La Liga.

7. Lautaro Martinez – Inter Milan

Lautaro Martínez — Fabrizio Andrea Bertani / Shutterstock.com

Lautaro is entering his peak and proving why he’s one of the world’s most clinical finishers. After winning the Serie A Golden Boot and helping Inter to a UCL final, he’s now a Ballon d’Or contender.

6. Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting

Viktor Gyökeres — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

Gyokeres exploded onto the scene with an outstanding 2024 campaign in Portugal. With 220 goals already, the powerful Swede is tipped for a massive move to the Premier League.

5. Alexander Isak – Newcastle United

Isak overcame injury setbacks to score 23 goals in the Premier League in 2024/25. His unique mix of height, dribbling, and flair makes him a constant threat in the box.

4. Erling Haaland – Manchester City

The ultimate poacher, Haaland’s instinctive finishing and physical dominance have transformed City’s attack. Though not as prolific as in his record-breaking debut, he remains the most feared striker in football.

3. Harry Kane – Bayern Munich

Kane is the complete forward: goal scorer, playmaker, and leader. His move to Bayern finally brought him silverware, and he continues to deliver elite-level numbers in Germany.

2. Robert Lewandowski – Barcelona

Lewandowski is still defying age and setting records, scoring 27 La Liga goals last season. With over 600 career goals, he’s arguably the most consistent striker of the past decade.

1. Kylian Mbappe – Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappé — Marta Fernandez Jimenez / Shutterstock.com

Now leading the line for Real Madrid, Mbappe is already a global icon. His speed, finishing, and big-game mentality make him the most dangerous forward in the world today.