Premier League Golden Boot 2025/26 Race: Top contenders to watch this season

The countdown is almost over; the Premier League returns this Friday, and with it comes one of the most exciting subplots of any season: the battle for the Premier League Golden Boot 2025/26. Last season, Mohamed Salah once again cemented his place among the greats, scoring 29 goals to fire Liverpool to the title in Arne Slot’s debut campaign. The Egyptian superstar also registered 18 assists, equalling the record for goal involvements in a single season (47), set by Andrew Cole and Alan Shearer in the 1990s.

Related News: Mohamed Salah wins Golden Boot, equals EPL record for goal involvements in a single season

Hot on his heels were Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland, who took second and third place respectively. Both are expected to be among the favourites again this year. But the race is far from a three-horse contest, new signings and emerging stars are ready to challenge for the crown. From Viktor Gyokeres at Arsenal to Hugo Ekitike at Liverpool, Benjamin Sesko at Manchester United and Chelsea’s new-look attack featuring Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Cole Palmer, this season’s race has no shortage of intrigue.

Here’s our breakdown of the top 10 contenders for the Premier League’s most prestigious individual award.

1. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool

2024/25 Premier League goals: 29

The four-time Golden Boot winner has been Liverpool’s talisman for nearly a decade. Even at 33, Salah remains one of the most lethal forwards in world football. However, there are two key factors to consider this season:

Squad rotation: Arne Slot has strengthened his forward options, which could mean fewer minutes for Salah.

AFCON absence: Egypt’s involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026 could see him miss up to six league matches if they reach the final.

Still, as Jamie Vardy proved at the same age in 2020, age alone won’t stop a determined striker from topping the charts.

2. Alexander Isak – Newcastle United

2024/25 Premier League goals: 23

Isak’s mix of pace, movement, and finishing makes him one of Europe’s most complete strikers. He spearheaded Newcastle’s return to the Champions League and has attracted transfer interest from Liverpool and other big clubs.

If he stays at St James’ Park, he’ll lead the line in a system built around him. If he moves to a title contender, his numbers could go through the roof.

3. Erling Haaland – Manchester City

2024/25 Premier League goals: 22

Erling Haaland was a force to be reckoned with during his first two seasons in the Premier League, clinching the Golden Boot as City claimed back-to-back titles. In 2024/25, his performance reflected that of his team, falling short of his previously high standards but still competing for the Golden Boot.

He is once again the frontrunner for 2025/26, but while there is no question about the Norwegian's talent, last season highlighted that he relies on the support of his teammates to achieve success.

4. Bryan Mbuemo – Manchester United

2024/25 Premier League goals: 20 (for Brentford)

Teams usually don't invest £65m in a player without plans to start him regularly, so Bryan Mbuemo might quickly adapt after his move from Brentford to Manchester United.

However, last season was chaotic at Old Trafford, and it's reasonable to expect that a summer of changes will lead to more initial challenges for Ruben Amorim's United. As he approaches his peak, Mbuemo could thrive at his dream club, but replicating last season's Golden Boot finish will be a significant task, especially with AFCON coming up for the Cameroonian.

5. Benjamin Sesko – Manchester United

2024/25 Premier League goals: 13 (RB Leipzig)

Manchester United have secured their striker. Is he the one to propel them up the Premier League standings in 2025/26? He only scored 13 in the Bundesliga last season for RB Leipzig and may need time to adjust to England. At 22, he is still developing.

However, he brings speed, strength, and a commanding presence at 6'5. There were high hopes for Rasmus Hojlund two years ago, and United fans will be eager to avoid seeing another promising young forward struggle at Old Trafford. A strong start would greatly benefit Sesko.

6. Ollie Watkins – Aston Villa

2024/25 Premier League goals: 16

Watkins' season took a downturn when Unai Emery excluded him from key matches. It was hard to understand what the England player had done wrong, and he was quickly linked to other teams. Arsenal was a top contender for a while, but with the Gunners signing Viktor Gyokeres, a move there seems unlikely now.

However, a transfer to Manchester United remains a possibility. On the other hand, he could regain his form at Villa. The uncertainty might make bettors hesitant to support him for now, but wherever he plays in 2025/26, Watkins will aim for a standout season with next summer's World Cup approaching

7. Cole Palmer – Chelsea

2024/25 Premier League goals: 15

Despite being seen as having a tough season at times, Palmer's 15 goals are impressive, especially since he is tasked with both scoring and creating goals. Chelsea has invested significantly in forwards this summer, which might ease the scoring pressure on him, but don't be surprised if he emerges as the key player for the Blues again, particularly after his crucial role in their Club World Cup victory.

8. Matheus Cunha – Manchester United

2024/25 Premier League goals: 15 (for Wolves)

Cunha was the first player Manchester United signed this summer as Ruben Amorim started to refresh his attacking lineup and find players suited to his 3-4-3 system.

The Brazilian netted 15 goals in 33 Premier League matches last season while playing for Wolves, a team that often battled to stay in the league. If Amorim's United team clicks and competes for a top-six finish, their £62m signing could become a key goal scorer.

9. Joao Pedro – Chelsea

2024/25 Premier League goals: 10 (for Brighton)

Joao Pedro joined Chelsea this summer and made an instant impact at the Club World Cup, scoring twice in the semi-final and once in the final. This has sparked optimism among Blues fans that he will significantly contribute in the Premier League this season, and his transfer fee reflects that belief.

Related News: Chelsea land Joao Pedro in £60m swoop from Brighton ahead of Club World Cup quarterfinal

The way Enzo Maresca immediately included him in the lineup suggests the manager is eager to provide him with ample chances, and if he continues to score, it may be hard for other players in Chelsea's large squad to replace him in the starting eleven.

10. Chris Wood – Nottingham Forest

2024/25 Premier League goals: 20

Last season, Chris Wood was a 20-goal star for Forest in their impressive Premier League journey. The big question now is whether the 33-year-old can maintain this performance for another year. However, his age could be a disadvantage in a season that includes European competition.

On the positive side, Nuno Espirito Santo's tactics suit Wood's abilities well, and some are betting on a striker who appears to be the top choice at the club and ended up joint fourth in scoring last year.

Who do you think will be the winner of the EPL golden boot this season?

Erling Haaland remains the most likely winner on paper, but Salah’s consistency and Isak’s potential make them serious threats. Bryan Mbuemo and Benjamin Sesko are intriguing outsiders, while Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro could emerge as surprise challengers if Chelsea’s attack gels.