In football, the number 9 jersey is traditionally reserved for a team’s primary goal scorer—the striker who leads the attack and delivers when it matters most. Whether they are powerful target men, clinical finishers, or dynamic forwards, these players are the focal points of their teams’ offensive play. Here’s a look our take at the best number 9s in the world right now.
11. Alexander Sørloth (Atlético Madrid)
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The Norwegian forward has established himself as a key figure at Atlético Madrid, providing a strong aerial presence and intelligent movement in the box. His ability to hold up play and finish clinically makes him a valuable asset in Diego Simeone’s system.
10. Iñaki Williams (Athletic Club)
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Williams is a vital player for Athletic Club, known for his blistering pace and durability. While not a traditional target man, his ability to exploit space and stretch defenses makes him a dangerous number 9 in La Liga.
Guirassy has been one of the breakout stars in European football, delivering an astonishing goal-scoring record. His combination of strength, finishing, and positioning has made him a crucial player for Borussia Dortmund.
David continues to impress in Ligue 1, showcasing his sharp finishing and intelligent movement. His ability to operate both as a lone striker and in a two-striker system makes him an adaptable and valuable forward for Lille.
7. Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus)
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A true number 9, Vlahovic is a powerful striker with a deadly left foot and a strong aerial presence. His ability to hold up play, finish from long range, and dominate in the box makes him one of the top strikers in Serie A.
6. Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)
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Since joining Inter Milan, Thuram has taken his game to the next level, blending speed, strength, and technical ability to become a complete forward. His link-up play and ability to take on defenders make him a key piece of Inter’s attack.
5. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
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Haaland is one of the most feared strikers in world football, combining raw power, speed, and clinical finishing. His goal-scoring record for Manchester City is staggering, and his ability to dominate defenders physically makes him an unstoppable force in the Premier League.
Gyökeres has exploded onto the scene with Sporting CP, proving to be a lethal and well-rounded striker. His mix of physical strength, intelligent positioning, and finishing ability has made him one of the most sought-after number 9s in Europe.
3. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
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Lewandowski remains one of the most complete strikers in the game. His movement, technique, and finishing ability make him a goal-scoring machine, even as he takes on a more creative role at Barcelona. His experience and leadership continue to be invaluable.
2. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
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While typically known for wearing the number 7, Mbappé has played as a number 9 for both club and country. His explosive pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing make him one of the most dangerous forwards in the world, capable of single-handedly deciding games.
1. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
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Kane has seamlessly adapted to life at Bayern Munich, proving why he is one of the best strikers of his generation. A complete forward, he possesses elite finishing, playmaking ability, and intelligence on the ball. His ability to both score and create makes him the ultimate modern number 9, and his presence has transformed Bayern’s attack.
