The 21st century has yielded its share of players who have entertained fans beyond expectations. And for forwards, scoring goals every match is the biggest achievement. With that in mind, here are the top five players in the 21st century to reach 100 goals in the fewest games.
5. Edinson Cavani (Napoli) – 100 goals in 135 games
The Uruguayan broke into the scene as a youngster at Napoli, and reached 100 goals in only 135 games for the Blues. He moved to PSG afterwards, and established himself as one of the greats of the club there as well. Despite his constant ability to impress, Cavani goes down as one of the most underrated strikers of the 21st century.
4. Ruud van Nistelrooy (Manchester United) – 100 goals in 131 games
van Nilsterooy stayed at Manchester United for only 5 seasons, but established himself as a legend quickly. It took him only 131 games to reach the 100 goal mark, and he won the Golden Boot in one of his five seasons with the club. The Dutchman was clinical in the box, and is one of the most important attackers in United’s history.
3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG) – 100 goals in 124 games
Ibrahimovic was the first big player to be recruited by the Qatari owners of the Parisian club. He went on to score 156 goals in 180 appearances for PSG, and helped establish them as the best team in France for the decade ahead.
2. Luis Suarez (Barcelona) – 100 goals in 120 games
Making an ambitious switch from Liverpool, Suarez had to wait to get his chance in a Blaurana shirt. But once he did, he was extraordinary in front of goal. The number 9 left the club in 2020 as their third-highest all time scorer and continues to impress for Atletico Madrid.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) – 100 goals in 105 games
Following his first Ballon d’Or trophy, Ronaldo made his dream move to Madrid and it took him only 105 games to score 100 goals. The now five-time Ballon d’Or winner is the highest goalscorer in the history of the club, and to most, is the greatest player to ever play for Los Blancos.
