Top 25 Strikers in World Soccer Right Now

Having the best defender, midfielder, or playmaker means little without a striker who can consistently score. The striker’s role has changed, evolving beyond just goal-scoring to becoming more versatile. But goals remain the most valuable asset.

Here is Sports Illustrated's list of the 25 best strikers playing today.

25. Jonathan David

Jonathan David has steadily built his reputation over several years. Since joining Lille in 2020, he has consistently scored, reaching 25+ goals in multiple seasons despite Lille not being a top-tier club. His 2025 move to Juventus places him among elite company, ready to prove himself on the biggest stage.

24. Patrik Schick

Patrik Schick's skill defies his awkward appearance. After quieter spells, he exploded in 2024–25 with 27 goals, stepping up when Victor Boniface was injured and securing his place as a key player, leading to Boniface's exit.

23. Samu Aghehowa

At 6'4", Samu Aghehowa represents a return to the traditional big striker. His blend of power and finesse helped him score 27 goals for Porto in 2024–25, showcasing versatility from headers to acrobatic finishes.

22. Jean-Philippe Mateta

After a slow start at Crystal Palace, Mateta emerged as a lethal forward during the 2023–24 season, scoring 36 goals over two years. His aerial strength, pace, and composure earned him a spot in France’s national team.

21. Ollie Watkins

Since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020, Ollie Watkins has been central to their rise from relegation candidates to Champions League contenders. He netted 27 goals in 2023–24 and remains committed to Villa despite other offers.

20. Nick Woltemade

Newcastle United secured Nick Woltemade ahead of Bayern Munich after Alexander Isak's £125 million transfer to Liverpool. The 6'6" German combines intelligence, pressing, and a delicate touch, already impressing fans in his debut season.

19. Omar Marmoush

Manchester City found a spark in Omar Marmoush mid-2024–25 after his prolific Bundesliga run with Eintracht Frankfurt. Known for sharp technique and fearless decisions, Marmoush impressed with moments like a stunning long-range strike against Bournemouth.

18. Ferran Torres

Ferran Torres struggled to find a consistent position early in his career but seized the chance to play as a central striker for Barcelona following Robert Lewandowski’s decline. His clinical finishing and pressing have made him a key figure alongside young talent Lamine Yamal.

17. Matheus Cunha

Matheus Cunha blends flair and effectiveness. His performances at Wolves were crucial in their Premier League survival in 2024–25, and his move to Manchester United comes with expectations to build on that success.

16. Cristiano Ronaldo

Though in his forties and playing in Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal-scoring instinct and hunger persist. He scored eight goals in the 2024–25 Nations League, including decisive strikes that helped Portugal win the tournament.

15. Viktor Gyökeres

Viktor Gyökeres scored an astonishing 97 goals in two seasons at Sporting CP before moving to Arsenal. Though yet to fully prove himself in the Premier League, his goal record in Portugal is historic and hard to ignore.

14. Benjamin Šeško

After years of potential, Benjamin Šeško broke out in 2024–25 with 21 goals for RB Leipzig. His aerial ability and sharp movement mark him as a major threat. His recent transfer to Manchester United puts him in the spotlight.

13. João Pedro

João Pedro brings relentless work rate, flair, and link-up play. While previously inconsistent, his form at Chelsea improved notably after Liam Rosenior replaced Enzo Maresca mid-season.

12. Marcus Thuram

Marcus Thuram has been a smart free transfer for Inter Milan. Filling Romelu Lukaku’s role, he combined well with Lautaro Martínez to help Inter win Serie A in 2023–24 and reach the Champions League final. His 33 goals showcase his versatility and contribution.

11. Serhou Guirassy

Serhou Guirassy rose from Ligue 2 struggles to Borussia Dortmund star, scoring 38 goals in his first season including 13 in the Champions League, making him the tournament’s top scorer and a world-class striker on the rise.

10. Alexander Isak

Despite doubts after a modest spell at Real Sociedad, Alexander Isak scored 62 goals for Newcastle before breaking the British transfer record with a £125 million move to Liverpool. His varied scoring ability marks him as a top forward.

9. Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen played a key role in Napoli’s first Serie A title in over 30 years in 2022–23. Although now permanently at Galatasaray, he continues scoring prolifically and could succeed anywhere.

8. Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski’s consistency over two decades remains impressive. At Barcelona, he continues scoring efficiently without the flashiness of some peers. Despite lacking extreme pace or physicality, his goal-scoring record is nearly unmatched.

7. Hugo Ekitike

Hugo Ekitike rediscovered his form at Eintracht Frankfurt after a difficult period at PSG, showing elegant movement and finishing. His 2024–25 performance earned a move to Liverpool, where he started strongly.

6. Julián Álvarez

Julián Álvarez served as Erling Haaland’s understudy at Manchester City but still made a significant impact. Moving to Atlético Madrid in 2024, he scored 29 goals, blending traditional Argentine striker qualities with relentless work ethic and speed.

5. Lautaro Martínez

Lautaro Martínez combines strength, precision, and tireless effort. Consistently scoring 20+ goals for Inter Milan while working hard off the ball, he embodies the modern striker and has thrived alongside various striking partners.

4. Ousmane Dembélé

After struggling with injuries and inconsistency at Barcelona, Ousmane Dembélé flourished at Paris Saint-Germain. Taking a central role post-Mbappé, he led PSG to a historic quadruple including their first Champions League title, scoring 35 goals and assisting 16.

3. Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland might lack flair but excels at scoring. His 6'5" frame combined with explosive pace makes him unstoppable. Despite Manchester City's overall struggles in 2024–25, Haaland’s goal tally remained high.

2. Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé stands out as the best forward currently. Fast, strong, skillful, and intelligent, he scored 43 goals in his debut Real Madrid season—more than any before him. His peak years lie ahead.

1. Harry Kane

Harry Kane is one of the most naturally gifted finishers ever. His instincts and awareness produce goals from even the smallest chances. Now at Bayern Munich, he has finally won trophies while silencing critics. With 213 Premier League goals, he is a true icon.