The 15 greatest strikers in Premier League history

November 5, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Some players score goals. Others change the game. This countdown celebrates the 15 most legendary strikers to ever grace the Premier League — those who left fans in awe and defenders in despair. From icons of the '90s to modern-day phenoms, here's who made the list.

15. Ian Wright – Arsenal & West Ham United

Though he arrived late to the Premier League, Ian Wright quickly became a fan favorite at Arsenal. With 113 goals in 213 appearances, his passion, movement, and instinctive finishing left a lasting legacy.

14. Ruud van Nistelrooy – Manchester United

Ruud van Nistelrooy scored 95 goals in just 150 games, cementing his place as one of the league’s most clinical finishers. The Dutchman’s sharp positioning and cold-blooded composure made him a nightmare for defenders.

13. Erling Haaland – Manchester City

Photo: Jose Breton- Pics Action / Shutterstock.com

Erling Haaland has taken the Premier League by storm since joining Manchester City, scoring 98 goals in 107 matches. His blend of power, speed, and ruthless finishing has already earned him two Golden Boots.

12. Michael Owen – Liverpool, Manchester United & others

Michael Owen was a teenage sensation who ended his career with 150 Premier League goals. Injuries may have held him back, but at his peak, his acceleration and eye for goal made him one of the best.

11. Robin van Persie – Arsenal & Manchester United

Robin van Persie lit up the league with 144 goals and a left foot that could do it all. His switch to Manchester United angered Arsenal fans, but it delivered him a well-earned Premier League title.

10. Luis Suárez – Liverpool

Luis Suarez — mooinblack / Shutterstock.com

Luis Suárez only played 110 Premier League games, but he made every one of them count. With 69 goals — including 31 in a single season — the Uruguayan dazzled fans and terrified backlines.

9. Didier Drogba – Chelsea

Didier Drogba scored 104 Premier League goals, many in key moments for Chelsea. Strong, technical, and a true big-game player, Drogba was the ultimate all-round striker under José Mourinho.

8. Andy Cole – Manchester United & others

Andy Cole found the net 187 times in the Premier League — and almost never from the penalty spot. Best known for his partnership with Dwight Yorke at United, Cole’s pace and precision were elite.

7. Dennis Bergkamp – Arsenal

Dennis Bergkamp redefined what a forward could be. Though not a traditional striker, his 87 goals and 88 assists showcase the Dutchman’s vision, touch, and brilliance — qualities that made him unplayable on his day.

6. Eric Cantona – Leeds United & Manchester United

Eric Cantona didn’t just score 70 goals — he transformed Manchester United. With unmatched charisma and creative flair, the Frenchman was the catalyst behind United’s first league title in 26 years.

5. Sergio Agüero – Manchester City

Sergio Agüero racked up 184 goals over a decade at Manchester City, including that famous last-minute title winner. Always a threat, the Argentine delivered consistently season after season.

4. Harry Kane – Tottenham Hotspur

Harry Kane scored 213 Premier League goals for Spurs, becoming the division’s second all-time scorer. Despite never winning a league title, his finishing, passing, and consistency are unquestionable.

3. Wayne Rooney – Everton & Manchester United

Wayne Rooney was a force of nature, scoring 208 goals in nearly 500 games. His mix of passion, technique, and versatility helped United dominate the league during his time at Old Trafford.

2. Alan Shearer – Blackburn Rovers & Newcastle United

Alan Shearer with his wife — Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com

Alan Shearer stands as the Premier League’s all-time top scorer with 260 goals. Powerful, relentless, and always in the right place, Shearer’s records have stood untouched for nearly two decades.

1. Thierry Henry – Arsenal

No striker combined style and substance like Thierry Henry. With 175 goals, four Golden Boots, and countless unforgettable moments, the Frenchman remains the Premier League’s ultimate forward.