Raphinha, Champions League, Cristiano Ronaldo

Ranking Players with the Most Goal Contributions in a Single Campaign

March 16, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

One of the most impressive individual achievements in the Champions League is delivering both goals and assists at an elite level throughout a single campaign. While team success is often the main focus, some players have managed to dominate the competition with their individual brilliance, racking up incredible numbers in terms of goal contributions.

We’ve taken a look at the players who have recorded the most goal contributions in a single Champions League season, ranking them from lowest to highest.

Dwight Yorke – 1998/99 – 16

During Manchester United’s iconic treble-winning season, Dwight Yorke played a crucial role in their Champions League triumph. His 16 goal contributions were vital in United’s attacking dominance, helping them overcome some of Europe’s toughest opponents on their way to glory.

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Ruud van Nistelrooy – 2002/03 – 16

One of the most lethal strikers of his generation, Ruud van Nistelrooy was unstoppable for Manchester United in the 2002/03 campaign. Despite United not going all the way, his ability to consistently find the net and create chances made him a standout performer.

Lionel Messi – 2010/11 – 16

At the peak of his powers, Lionel Messi was instrumental in Barcelona’s Champions League-winning season under Pep Guardiola. His dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability tore defenses apart, culminating in a stunning performance in the final against Manchester United.

Lionel Messi – 2014/15 – 16

Messi once again proved why he was among the best, playing a crucial role in Barcelona’s treble-winning campaign. Alongside Neymar and Luis Suárez, he formed one of the deadliest attacking trios in football history, contributing heavily to their European success.

Robert Lewandowski – 2021/22 – 16

Lewandowski continued to cement his status as one of the greatest strikers of his era with another incredible Champions League season. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement made him a nightmare for defenders, leading Bayern’s charge in Europe.

Raphinha – 2024/25 – 16

The only active player on this list, Raphinha has been in exceptional form for Barcelona this season. With the tournament still ongoing, he has a chance to climb higher and potentially challenge the all-time record if he maintains his impressive performances.

Karim Benzema – 2021/22 – 17

Benzema was the driving force behind Real Madrid’s remarkable run to Champions League glory. His ability to score in crucial moments, particularly in the knockout rounds, made him one of the standout performers of the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 2016/17 – 18

Ronaldo delivered another masterclass in the Champions League as Real Madrid secured back-to-back titles. His performances in the latter stages, including the final against Juventus, proved decisive as he continued to shine on the biggest stage.

Roberto Firmino – 2017/18 – 18

Firmino’s impact in Liverpool’s attacking play was immense as they reached the final. His link-up play, pressing, and creativity made him a key figure in Jürgen Klopp’s high-intensity system, contributing heavily to their success.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 2017/18 – 18

In yet another dominant season, Ronaldo was relentless in front of goal, spearheading Real Madrid’s third consecutive Champions League title. His ability to step up in crucial moments made him a true leader for Los Blancos.

Lionel Messi – 2011/12 – 19

Messi’s mesmerizing form in the 2011/12 season saw him produce some of the most dazzling individual displays in Champions League history. Though Barcelona fell short in the semifinals, his goal contributions made him the tournament’s standout player.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 2015/16 – 20

Ronaldo played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s Champions League success, delivering 20 goal contributions throughout the campaign. His performances, especially in the knockout rounds, cemented his legacy as one of the competition’s all-time greats.

Robert Lewandowski – 2019/20 – 21

Lewandowski was unstoppable in Bayern’s triumphant 2019/20 campaign, playing a key role in their treble-winning season. His ability to score in every stage of the tournament made him one of the most dominant strikers in Champions League history.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 2013/14 – 22

Holding the record for the most goal contributions in a single Champions League season, Ronaldo’s 2013/14 campaign was nothing short of legendary. Leading Real Madrid to La Décima, his 22 goal contributions set a benchmark that no player has surpassed—at least, not yet.