Major League Soccer Forwards - 2023 power rankings
By Alex Windley
There is a myriad of great forwards in MLS.
Every week, the best of the best separate themselves from the average attackers and show that they are indeed a class above. From target strikers to false nines to every converted winger in between, every week, MLS gives these players a platform to show their quality.
Here are 90Min’s power rankings of MLS forwards...
10. Christian Benteke
Christian Benteke has had a stellar start to the 2023 season.
The 32-year-old provides great hold-up play for head coach Wayne Rooney’s squad and is a focal point to run their offense through.
Benteke has also managed to knock in three goals through six games this year. As the season continues, expect Benteke to continue his great form.
9. Simon Becher
Simon Becher, welcome to MLS!
The 23-year-old had a stellar performance in week six that saw the Vancouver Whitecaps beat CF Montreal by five goals.
He ended the match with two goals, three chances created, and one assist.
Becher will only continue to get better as he gets more minutes with the Canadian team.
8. Georgios Giakoumakis
Georgios Giakoumakis is finally finding his footing with Atlanta United.
The Greek international only has two goals through six games, but his charisma, on-the-field impact, and fierceness in front of the goal have given Atlanta a new edge.
7. Brandon Vazquez
Brandon Vazquez is consistently getting better for FC Cincinnati.
The US International only has one goal in six games, but it’s only a matter of time before he gets on the scoresheet again. Still, Vazquez is one of the best young strikers in the league, and FC Cincinnati is a scary team when he’s in form.
6. Jesus Ferreria
Like Vazquez, Jesus Ferreira is among the league's brightest young strikers.
His three goals in six games have him leading FC Dallas in scoring, despite their okay start to the 2023 season.
Ferreira has a knack for scoring goals in the box and also is capable of delivering to teammates. As the year progresses, the 22-year-old will only get better.
5. Gustavo Bou
Gustavo Bou has always been one of the better forwards in MLS.
His return to the field for the New England Revolution after receiving his green card has seen the Bruce Arena-led team jump to third in the Eastern Conference.
Bou has also been good for the Revolution, but in 2023, he looks like he’s playing even better.
4. Denis Bouanga
Denis Bouanga has been stealing the headlines for LAFC.
The Gabon international has six goals in all competitions and doesn’t look like he’s slowing down.
Though LAFC isn’t on top of the Western Conference, with Bouanga leading the line they looked primed to potentially repeat as MLS Cup Champions this year.
3. Christian Ramirez
Christian Ramirez’s return to MLS involved him slotting in two goals against Atlanta United a week ago.
Though Ramirez isn’t the most well-known forward on the Crew roster, his impact has been felt.
His physicality, eye for goal, and determination make him a fearful option for Columbus’ front line.
2. Joao Klauss
Joao Klauss has a welcomed surprise to MLS.
The Brazilian has five goals through six games and is a big reason why St Louis is at the top of the Western Conference.
Not only is Klauss able to score, but he can assist as well, notching an assist during this six-game run as well.
Though St. Louis’ historic win streak has ended, Klauss will get better as 2023 goes on.
1. Jordan Morris
The Seattle Sounder are on a roll, and Jordan Morris is a big part of that.
Morris is currently leading the lead in scoring with whopping eight goals through six games.
The US international is carrying the Sounders attack as they look to return to the playoffs after missing them in 2022.