The 20 Greatest Goal Scorers in Manchester United History – Ranked
Few clubs in world football have produced as many legendary goal scorers as Manchester United. From graceful midfielders to deadly strikers, the Red Devils' history is filled with iconic names who have lit up Old Trafford with their brilliance in front of goal.
This list celebrates the 20 greatest marksmen in the club’s history – ranked by total goals scored in all competitions. Whether born from the academy or signed from abroad, each of these players has left a lasting legacy in Manchester United's rich attacking tradition.
Starting from number 20 all the way to the club’s all-time top scorer, here are the legends who defined what it means to find the back of the net for United.
20. Bryan Robson – 97 goals
One of the most iconic midfielders in United's history, Bryan Robson was known for his leadership, tenacity, and eye for goal. As club captain for over a decade, he inspired generations and delivered goals from deep. Scoring 97 times in 446 appearances, he remains a true legend.
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19. Bruno Fernandes – 98 goals
The Portuguese playmaker has had an immediate impact since arriving in 2020. Renowned for his creativity, penalty accuracy, and long-range shooting, Fernandes quickly became one of United’s most reliable scorers. With 98 goals in 290 games, he continues to climb the ranks.
18. Brian McClair – 121 goals
Nicknamed "Choccy," McClair was a consistent forward throughout the late 1980s and early 90s. He was the first United player since George Best to score 20 league goals in a season after Best. His 121 goals in 466 appearances reflect his steady contributions.
17. Andy Cole – 121 goals
Andy Cole was a crucial part of United's treble-winning side in 1999. Known for his explosive pace and goal-scoring instincts, he formed a deadly partnership with Dwight Yorke. Cole scored 121 goals in 275 appearances for the club.
16. Ole Gunnar Solskjær – 126 goals
The "Baby-faced Assassin" built a reputation for coming off the bench and scoring crucial goals. Best remembered for his injury-time winner in the 1999 Champions League final, Solskjær ended his United career with 126 goals in 366 games.
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15. Joe Spence – 131 goals
A star in the post-World War I era, Joe Spence was known for his dribbling and powerful shot. Despite playing in a challenging time for the club, he still managed to net 131 goals in just 189 appearances. A true pre-war great.
14. Stan Pearson – 135 goals
Pearson played a key role in Manchester United’s revival after World War II. The inside forward had a knack for scoring in big games, including crucial derby goals. He scored 135 times in 318 games for the club.
13. Marcus Rashford – 138 goals
A local academy graduate, Rashford burst onto the scene in 2016 and quickly became a key figure in United’s attack. With pace, flair, and finishing ability, he has already scored 138 goals in 426 appearances – and he's still going strong.
12. David Herd – 143 goals
Herd was a consistent and clinical striker in the 1960s, helping United win the league and FA Cup. Known for his powerful finishing, he scored 143 goals in 261 games, leaving a lasting mark on the Busby era.
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11. Cristiano Ronaldo – 145 goals
Ronaldo dazzled Old Trafford during two spells, first as a rising superstar, then returning as a global icon. With 145 goals in 346 appearances, including countless screamers and clutch moments, he is one of United’s most gifted players ever.
10. Ruud van Nistelrooy – 150 goals
Few strikers were as lethal in the box as Van Nistelrooy. The Dutchman scored 150 goals in just 219 appearances, an astonishing ratio. His calmness under pressure and clinical edge made him a fan favorite.
9. Paul Scholes – 155 goals
A midfield maestro, Scholes had an incredible ability to find the net from range. Revered for his technique, vision, and passing, he scored 155 goals in 716 matches – a rare achievement for a central midfielder.
8. Mark Hughes – 161 goals
Known for his physicality, thunderous volleys, and fearless style, Mark Hughes was a powerhouse in United’s attack across two spells at the club. With 161 goals in 459 appearances, he was instrumental in United’s success in the late 1980s and early 90s. His passion and commitment made him a fan favorite at Old Trafford.
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7. Ryan Giggs – 168 goals
United’s all-time appearance leader, Giggs scored 168 goals across 963 games. Famous for his dazzling runs and ability to reinvent himself over time, he won every major honor with the club and was an ever-present force for two decades.
6. Tommy Taylor – 173 goals
Taylor was a natural-born striker whose life was tragically cut short in the 1958 Munich air disaster. In just 189 games, he scored 173 goals – a phenomenal record that speaks volumes about his talent and potential.
5. George Best – 179 goals
An icon of the 1960s and a global superstar, Best blended dazzling footwork with a deadly eye for goal. Scoring 179 times in 470 games, he was as much an entertainer as a scorer, and remains one of football’s greatest talents.
4. Jack Rowley – 190 goals
Nicknamed "Gunner" for his powerful left foot, Rowley was instrumental during the post-war success under Matt Busby. He netted 190 goals in 377 appearances and played a key role in United’s first post-war league titles.
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3. Denis Law – 237 goals
A Ballon d’Or winner and United’s "King of the Stretford End," Law was a flamboyant and fearless striker. With 237 goals in 405 matches, his legacy is etched in United folklore, including a legendary backheel goal.
2. Bobby Charlton – 245 goals
A Munich survivor and a true gentleman of the game, Charlton led by example on and off the field. He scored 245 goals in 746 games, combining power and precision from midfield. His name remains synonymous with Manchester United history.
1. Wayne Rooney – 253 goals
United’s all-time top scorer, Rooney had a rare blend of work ethic, vision, and finishing. He scored 253 goals in 559 appearances, surpassing Sir Bobby Charlton’s long-standing record. From volleys to screamers, Rooney did it all.
