The 10 greatest goal-scoring midfielders in football history (ranked)

October 30, 2025 Kris Isaksen

While strikers often dominate the spotlight, some of football’s most prolific scorers have come from deeper on the pitch. These legendary midfielders weren't just creators—they were ruthless finishers, capable of deciding matches with a single strike. Ranked by total career goals, here are the top 10 goal-scoring midfielders in the history of the game.

10. Steven Gerrard – 206 goals

A Liverpool icon and one of England’s finest, Steven Gerrard was a master of the dramatic goal. Whether it was his thunderbolt against Olympiacos or his late equaliser in the FA Cup final, Gerrard’s 206 goals often came at the most crucial moments.

9. Kaká – 237 goals

Elegant and explosive, Kaká was a creative force who also knew how to finish. His 237 career goals, including standout performances for AC Milan and Brazil, earned him the 2007 Ballon d'Or and a Champions League title that same year.

8. Socrates – 258 goals

Socrates brought flair, intellect, and precision to Brazil’s midfield in the 70s and 80s. With 258 goals across club and country, the tall, two-footed playmaker was a central figure in one of the most beloved teams in World Cup history.

7. Frank Lampard – 297 goals

Chelsea’s all-time leading scorer redefined what a Premier League midfielder could be. Lampard’s 297 goals were the result of perfect timing, endless energy, and a thunderous shot—qualities that made him a consistent threat in every match.

6. Bobby Charlton – 312 goals

Sir Bobby Charlton — Panini, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

A Manchester United and England legend, Bobby Charlton overcame the Munich Air Disaster to become a global football icon. With 312 goals to his name, his impact on and off the pitch remains unmatched in English football history.

5. Jan Ceulemans – 314 goals

Often overlooked on the world stage, Jan Ceulemans was a giant in Belgian football. His 314 goals, mostly for Club Brugge, showcased his knack for arriving late in the box and finishing with precision in the domestic game.

4. Teófilo Cubillas – 342 goals

Teófilo Cubillas is a Peruvian legend whose grace and effectiveness made him unstoppable. Scoring 342 times, he starred in multiple World Cups and was named in Pelé’s FIFA 100 list, confirming his place among football's elite.

3. Michel Platini – 354 goals

Michel Platini was a scoring machine from midfield, winning three straight Ballon d’Or titles in the 80s. His 354 goals reflect his time dominating with Nancy, Saint-Étienne, Juventus, and the French national team.

2. Fritz Walter – 381 goals

A one-club man with Kaiserslautern, Fritz Walter's loyalty never stopped him from becoming a world-class finisher. With 381 goals, he led Germany through the post-war era and earned the honour of being named the national team’s captain for life.

1. Zico – 517 goals

Zico tops the list as the most prolific goal-scoring midfielder ever. The Brazilian genius scored 517 goals during a dazzling career, mainly with Flamengo, and proved his brilliance across continents—even earning Serie A’s top player award during his time at Udinese.