From Haaland to Watkins: List of Premier League golden boot contenders

Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland is poised to begin the 2026-27 Premier League season as the dominant favorite for the Golden Boot. Having secured the award three times in his four seasons, Haaland's extraordinary goal-scoring record since arriving in England makes him the man to beat once again. Despite a potential managerial change at City with Enzo Maresca taking the helm, Haaland is expected to remain the team's primary offensive threat.

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Haaland remains the man to beat. His goalscoring record since arriving in England has been extraordinary, and he will be looking to claim the Golden Boot for a fourth time.

Several top forwards are anticipated to challenge Haaland for the coveted prize. Alexander Isak of Liverpool is highlighted as a strong contender, having already proven his scoring prowess in the league. His ability to consistently find the net will be crucial for his side's attack, though his form and fitness will be key after an injury-affected previous campaign.

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Isak is among the strongest challengers to Haaland. The Liverpool striker has already demonstrated his ability to score heavily in the Premier League and will be expected to play a major role in his side’s attack.

Other notable contenders include Igor Thiago of Brentford, who impressed last season with 22 league goals, finishing second to Haaland. He faces pressure to demonstrate that his success was not a fluke. Viktor Gyokeres, after scoring 14 goals in his debut Premier League season with Arsenal, aims to significantly improve his tally with a full season of experience. Joao Pedro of Chelsea also enters the race, having scored 15 goals last season, and could benefit from playing in an attacking system under Xabi Alonso.

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Thiago announced himself as a serious goalscorer last season by scoring 22 Premier League goals, finishing second behind Haaland. The Brazilian will now be under pressure to show that his tally was not a one-season wonder.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa remains a reliable forward, though he will need a substantial increase from his 12 goals last season to seriously contend. Benjamin Sesko, a Manchester United striker, is identified as an outside bet who could emerge as a contender if he maintains consistent form throughout the season, leveraging his physical attributes and finishing ability. Players like Dominic Solanke, Antoine Semenyo, and Morgan Gibbs-White are also mentioned as potential challengers if they have breakout seasons.

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With a full season of experience in English football behind him, the Sweden international will hope to improve significantly on that tally and challenge for the Golden Boot.