The best forwards in the world score their teams’ goals and win them trophies. Yes, modern football tactics have changed to the point where a single player is vital to a team’s success. But the forwards still get the headlines, and for good reason.
But there aren’t many around, are there? Not like they used to be. This is exactly why today we look at the best forwards in the world for last, in 2023, and acknowledge their incredible achievements.
Best Forwards in the World in 2023
Serhou Guirassy
Who says that only wonderkid strikers and famous veterans get to score +15 goals a season? Serhou Guirassy proved them wrong last year. And, should he never live up to this year’s performances, what he did is still worth celebrating.
Serhou Guirassy’s physicality and ability to hold up play have made significant contributions to his team’s attacking dynamics. Despite facing stiff competition, Guirassy’s knack for timely positioning and his aerial prowess have seen him converting critical chances, underlining his growing reputation as a clutch player in key moments.
Guirassy has thus far scored 21 goals for VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga this season and many clubs are interested in his services.
Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski was still one of the top strikers in the world last year. We shouldn’t let FC Barcelona’s troubles on and off the pitch take from our appreciation of the great player. Lewa has scored 12 goals this season and provided 6 assists.
Robert Lewandowski’s 2023 has been another chapter in his storied career, showcasing his undiminished skills and killer instinct in front of the goal.
The Polish striker’s lethal finishing, combined with his intelligent movement off the ball, has kept defenders on their toes and maintained his status as one of the world’s elite forwards. His consistency and work ethic continue to be a beacon for aspiring footballers.
Victor Boniface
Victor Boniface has been a revelation in 2023, breaking onto the scene with his explosive speed and raw power. Before his 2023 transfer to Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen, Boniface was a virtual unknown.
The young forward has demonstrated a remarkable ability to break through defensive lines and finish with precision, earning him a reputation as a promising talent in European football. His performances have not only excited fans but have also caught the eye of bigger clubs looking to secure his services.
At 23 years of age, leading Germany’s strongest team at the moment, there are few players who seem more ready for the big-time than Victor Boniface.
Dusan Vlahovic
In 2023, Dusan Vlahovic has further cemented his status as a formidable striker. His blend of size, strength, and technical skill has made him a constant threat in the attacking third. Vlahovic’s eye for goal and ability to shoot from distance have contributed to his impressive tally, making him one of the most watched forwards in the league.
Like others on this list, Vlahovic’s performances have been overshadowed by a series of problems faced by his club. But with nearly a goal every two games for Juventus, Vlahovic’s transfer can’t be viewed as a flop.
Alvaro Morata
Alvaro Morata has experienced a renaissance in 2023, rediscovering his best form and silencing critics. His renewed confidence is evident in his sharp movements and clinical finishing, which have been instrumental in his team’s offensive play. Morata’s resurgence is a testament to his resilience and dedication, proving that he remains a key asset in the attacking lineup.
Yes, Alvaro Morata has repaid all of his supporters who trusted him through several years of relative mediocrity. This season, Morata has scored 14 goals in 24 matches for an impressive Atletico Madrid side.
Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins’ 2023 season has been marked by hard work and perseverance, which have translated into commendable performances on the field. His relentless pressing and ability to link up play have made him an indispensable part of his team’s strategy. Watkins has shown that he is not just a goal-scorer but also a team player, contributing significantly to both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game.
You simply can’t understate how difficult it is to achieve what Watkins has this season. He is the second top scorer in the Premier League, the world’s most difficult footballing competition. And, his goals have powered Aston Villa to a potential Champions League qualifying spot.
Lautaro Martinez
Lautaro Martinez has continued to impress in 2023 with his dynamism and sharp instincts in front of goal. The Argentine’s combination of agility, technique, and tenacity has seen him outsmart defenders and find the back of the net with remarkable consistency. Martinez’s passion and energy on the pitch have endeared him to fans and underscored his role as a crucial component of his team’s attack.
At the moment, Martinez has scored a whopping 23 Serie A goals in 235 games for Inter Milan as Simone Inzaghi‘s side clawed their way back to greatness.
Antoine Griezmann
The fact that Antoine Griezmann is not talked about as a candidate for the Ballon d’Or is a crime. Simply put, the Frenchman is one of the best, most versatile, most technically proficient and hard-working players in the world for a number of years running.
Antoine Griezmann has shown in 2023 that class is permanent, delivering performances filled with creativity, flair, and precision. His ability to operate in various attacking roles has provided his team with flexibility and depth. Griezmann’s vision and playmaking skills, coupled with his knack for scoring crucial goals, have been central to his team’s successes this year.
Nearly all of Griezmann‘s offensive and defensive stats reveal him to be one of the top players in the world.
Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen’s 2023 has been nothing short of spectacular, with the Nigerian forward showcasing his blistering pace and formidable physical presence. Osimhen’s aggressive approach and relentless pursuit of the ball have made him a nightmare for defenders, while his improved finishing has seen him convert chances with impressive efficiency. His meteoric rise continues to capture the imagination of football fans worldwide.
Osimhen is already a legend. The Partenopei will praise his Scudetto-winning performances forever. But he is also just getting started. He scored 13 goals in 22 matches this season. And it looks more and more likely that Victor Osimhen will depart Napoli for an even richer club at the end of this campaign.
Harry Kane
Harry Kane’s 2023 season has added yet another chapter to his legacy as one of England’s finest strikers. His exceptional goal-scoring record speaks for itself, but it’s his leadership and ability to bring teammates into play that have truly stood out. Kane’s dedication and footballing intelligence make him a complete forward, respected by peers and feared by opponents.
Kane is a goal-scoring machine. And, in Germany, he didn’t stop for a second while playing for Bayern. Don’t let talk of curses fool you. Right now, at 30 years of age, Kane has 36 goals in 33 matches. That’s world-class!
Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland has been a force of nature in 2023, dominating defences with his incredible strength, speed, and clinical finishing. The Norwegian sensation has continued to defy expectations, breaking records and setting new benchmarks for forwards. Haaland’s towering presence and goal-scoring prowess have not only propelled his team to new heights but have also redefined what is expected from a modern-day striker.
Haaland broke the all-time goal-scoring record in the Premier League and won every major trophy with Manchester City. He will likely finish this season as EPL’s top scorer as well, confirming that the Norwegian is a once-in-a-generation talent.
