GOAL looks at the leading goal scorers in the MLS as the race for the Golden Boot is on
The 2024 MLS has been sublime, producing some jaw-dropping goals as fans brace for a feisty MLS Golden Boot race. As the season winds down, DC United's Christian Benteke is on a scorching pace, with Inter Miami's Barcelona duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez still in the scoring mix.
2023 MLS Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga is hunting for the prize once again, looking to become only the fifth player in history to capture the award twice. Here's a look at the contenders.
Getty1Christian Benteke | DC United | 23 goals
An opening day hat-trick in the 2024 MLS skyrocketed Christian Benteke's stocks as the former Crystal Palace forward continues to create havoc in America's premier division. He went on to register another hat-trick in May to further add to his tally.
The target man is an influential cog in DC United's forward battery and he'll be a major source of inspiration for DC United's success this term.
AdvertisementGetty Images2Denis Bouanga | Los Angeles FC | 20 goals
After winning the 2022 MLS Cup and following it up with a campaign that saw him land the 2023 MLS Golden Boot and lead the Black and Gold to yet another Cup win, Denis Bouanga's stock is among the highest across the MLS.
He had a slow start to the 2024 season, but he has put it behind him to reclaim his place among the MLS top scorers. He had scored eight goals till May and has since scored eight more goals in the space of three months.
Getty3Lionel Messi | Inter Miami | 20 goals
Since he arrived in the MLS, Lionel Messi has added plenty of quality to David Beckham's Inter Miami. And with La Pulga playing a complete campaign, it's no surprise to see the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner high in this list, albeit the Argentine great has missed parts of the season through various injury problems.
Getty4Luis Suarez | Inter Miami | 20 goals
Luis Suarez, Inter Miami's landmark signing in 2024, partnered with his former goal-scoring partner, Lionel Messi. The Uruguayan striker will be vying to replicate his Barcelona days at the Herons.