MLS top scorers 2025: Lionel Messi, Sam Surridge & the race for the Golden Boot

Lionel Messi has been nothing less than sensational, with a goal per game, helping him in the fight to be the league's top scorer.

He’s also made MLS history, becoming the first player to record multiple goals in five straight league matches.    

Denis Bouanga has firmly established himself as a talismanic presence for LAFC. Known for his dynamic pace, direct runs into the box, and instinctive finishing, he often proves decisive in tight games. Bouanga pairs his scoring ability with creative flair, regularly generating chances for teammates and stepping up in clutch moments.

His knack for creating physical mismatches and breaking defenses with speed makes him one of MLS’s most feared attackers, embodying leadership and offensive menace in equal measure.

The English striker has been at the top of his game this season.   

Sam Surridge continues to compete at the top of the Golden Boot race - his blazing form includes two hat-tricks, one coming in a 7–2 demolition of Chicago Fire. His consistency and scoring in big matches have him neck-and-neck with Messi.    

Anders Dreyer is more than just a scorer - he’s a creator. Known for his vision, precise passing, and composure, he regularly sets up goals while contributing plenty himself.

His well-rounded offensive game makes him a central figure in San Diego’s success and one of the most complete attackers in the league.

Evander offers a rare blend of technical skill and attacking productivity. Comfortable operating between the lines, he frequently contributes to both goals and assists.

His flair, creativity, and ability to control the rhythm of a match have made him indispensable for Cincinnati and a key name in the league’s scoring charts.  

Dejan Joveljić combines physical presence with natural finishing ability. A classic center-forward, he thrives in aerial duels and close-range situations, often popping up in the right place at the right time. 

His work rate and positional intelligence have made him a central figure in Sporting KC’s attack.

Petar Musa is a tall, imposing target striker whose blend of intelligent movement, physical presence, and sharp finishing have made him a central figure in FC Dallas’s attack.

Since joining from S.L. Benfica in a club-record transfer, Musa has delivered standout performances - including becoming the first European-born player to score a hat-trick in Dallas history and regularly earning places in MLS Player and Team of the Matchday selections - underscoring his ability to find the net and influence big moments.

Alonso Martínez has emerged as a vital offensive spark for New York City FC. The Costa Rican forward combines intelligent movement, nimble finishing, and a flair for dramatic goals.

Recognized with weekly MVP and Team of the Matchday honors, he earned a long-term contract extension through 2027 based on his impact, movement, and scoring instinct.

With international experience for Costa Rica and a blend of creativity and finishing prowess, Martínez remains one of MLS’s most exciting and reliable attacking talents.

Veteran forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting brings experience and flair to the New York Red Bulls attack. His adaptability across the front line and ability to score in a variety of ways - from headers to acrobatic volleys - make him a valuable figure in both open play and set-piece situations.

Hugo Cuypers has established himself as a dependable striker for Chicago Fire. With clever movement and a strong understanding of space, he frequently gets into scoring positions.

His calm demeanor in front of goal and intelligent decision-making have helped him become a standout performer. 

Brian White has emerged as a consistent and powerful striking presence in MLS. Since joining Vancouver Whitecaps mid‑season, he has rewritten club history by becoming the franchise’s all‑time leading goalscorer in the MLS era, and has repeatedly shown an ability to deliver in big moments.

Known for his physicality, aerial prowess, sharp positioning, and relentlessness in the final third, White combines clutch goal-scoring with unwavering work ethic.

Recognized multiple times by weekly and monthly MLS honors, he has secured contract extensions thanks to sustained excellence both domestically and in continental competition.

Hany Mukhtar is a dynamic attacking midfielder who blends vision, technical finesse, and scoring flair to shape Nashville SC’s offense.

Comfortable drifting into pockets of space, he excels at threading incisive passes, unlocking defenses, and finishing with composure - whether supplied by teammates or creating his own opportunities. He carries a global pedigree from Europa League experiences in Austria, Denmark, and Portugal, combined with youth development at Hertha Berlin.

Martín Ojeda has become a vital creative force in Orlando’s midfield and attack. A versatile Argentine attacker, he blends flair and vision with an unwavering work ethic.

Gifted both in tight spaces and open play, he excels at setting up teammates with incisive passes and intelligent off-ball movement. Occasionally capable of explosive goal-scoring bursts, Ojeda complements his finishing prowess with consistent chance creation.

Diego Rossi continues to impress with his blistering pace and sharp finishing. A constant threat on the counterattack, he can stretch defenses and exploit gaps with ease.

His ability to make decisive runs and deliver in key moments ensures he remains among the league’s most dangerous forwards.

Tai Baribo has earned a reputation as one of MLS’s sharpest finishers. Whether it's a quick turn in the box or a long-range effort, he regularly demonstrates an eye for goal.

His sharp instincts and direct playing style suit Philadelphia’s high-tempo attack, making him a constant focal point in the final third.